Five players to watch at this weekend’s PGA Championship:
Phil Mickelson
He revealed Tuesday he has an arthritic condition, which flared up before the U.S. Open but now is under control. The Masters champ wants to bookend his 2010 season with another major victory. He’s seeking his second PGA and fifth career major.
Tiger Woods
Who would ever imagine Woods would make this list for his train-wreck potential? But with fourth-place finishes at the Masters and U.S. Open, don’t doubt Tiger’s ability to find a quick fix for his ailing swing and win his fifth PGA and 15th major.
Steve Stricker
The Wisconsin native will be the overwhelming local favorite this week. The 43-year-old has won twice this season but has underachieved in majors, doing no better than 30th (Masters). What better place, however, for his major breakthrough?
Rory McIlroy
If the 21-year-old had played in the same conditions as Louis Oosthuizen — and not in the ridiculous weather that plagued the second round of the British Open (63-80-69-68 – 280) — he would have kissed the claret jug instead.
Paul Casey
After the withdrawal of Lee Westwood (foot), Casey leads a talented cast of Brits seeking a first major. Other worthy countrymen include Ian Poulter, Justin Rose, Luke Donald, Ross Fisher, Brian Davis and Chris Wood.
