While Phil Mickelson Endorses ‘Lefty’ Prodigy, Jordan Spieth Revealed as 16-Year-Old’s True Inspiration

“It’s going to be fun watching this young lefty’s career!” Phil Mickelson exclaimed in a tweet that sent shockwaves of excitement through the golf world. The golf legend’s endorsement had everyone buzzing as he heaped praise on young sensation Miles Russell. Mickelson took to social media to congratulate Russell on his impressive win at the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley. Mickelson’s praise wasn’t just a kind gesture, it was also a nod to the similarities between Russell’s game and his own.

As a fellow lefty, Mickelson likely recognized the unique challenges and advantages that came with playing from the left side. By comparing Russell to himself, Mickelson essentially said that he believed the young golfer had the potential to achieve great things. Coming from a 45-time PGA Tour winner, that was high praise indeed. However, while Mickelson might see himself in the young prodigy, Russell looks up to someone else.

Speaking on the latest episode of 5 Clubs on YouTube, Russell revealed something he hasn’t before. When the host asked him to name a tour player with a skill or strength he admires and wishes he possessed, Russell’s response was immediate and sincere. “How about Jordan Spieth? Speed wedges, um, his short game, it’s just so good,” he said.

Russell’s introduction to Jordan Spieth came at a young age, a moment that’s still etched in his memory. “I think the first one I’ve remembered on TV is probably Jordan Spieth Masters, okay 2015,” Russell recalled. He was just six years old at the time, watching in awe as Spieth took the golf world by storm.

The host seemed impressed with Russell’s answer, calling it “a very good answer.” He went on to share a personal anecdote about the first time he saw Spieth play. That was in 2014, right after he finished second at the Masters.

“I honestly, the first time I saw him chip and hit short pitches around… it was spooky like everything looked like it was going in,” the host recalled. He wrapped up the conversation by congratulating Russell on his recent win. This victory earned him a gold jacket at the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley.

Whoever Russell’s inspiration may be, most top PGA Tour golfers find him to be a really good player.

Scottie Scheffler’s take on Miles Russell

Back in 2024, Scottie Scheffler had the chance to observe Miles Russell up close. And boy, was he impressed by the young golfer’s humility and talent. “Seemed like a nice kid. Seemed like a humble kid,” Scheffler recalled after winning the RBC Heritage.

He shared a story about a practice round they played together at THE PLAYERS. That’s where Russell was asked what he was doing there. Russell’s response was characteristically low-key. He said, “Oh, I’m just watching today.” Scheffler noted that Russell didn’t boast about his win at the Junior PLAYERS, instead showing a refreshing lack of ego.