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Mickelson ready to rule - Pelz

Phil Mickelson's putting coach Dave Pelz believes the American is in the form of his life and ready to take over from Tiger at the top © Getty Images

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Legendary golf coach Dave Pelz believes Phil Mickelson is ready to depose Tiger Woods as the No. 1 golfer in the world.

Mickelson, who employs Pelz as his putting coach, claimed his fourth Major title with victory at The Masters earlier this month, while Woods, playing his first tournament since revelations about his private life, struggled to a tie for fourth.

All four of Mickelson's Major victories have come since he began working with Pelz in 2004, and the putting guru feels the improvements he has seen in the left-hander's all-round game since then is evidence that he can overpower Woods in the world rankings.

"Potentially he (Tiger) is the best player in the world and has been for a while, but I wouldn't say he is right now because of his lay-off," Pelz said. "In my view - this is probably biased - Phil probably has gained in skill level off the tee.

"He's been a great short game player for a while and I think he's even improved that in the last couple of years. I definitely think he has a better short game than Tiger. I would say Phil is his equal or better in every aspect. I think Phil is a great putter and I would not trade any parts of his game for Tiger's."

Mickelson has beaten Woods at the Tour Championship, HSBC Champions and at Augusta over the last 12 months and Pelz is backing the current world No. 2 to push Woods hard over the remainder of this season.

"I think Phil is one of the greatest players who has played the game in a long time," Pelz added. "I think he will challenge and hopefully ascend to the number one spot this year.

"I hope Tiger plays his very best. That's what I would like to see and have my friend Phil beat him when he's playing his best. That would be a real thrill for the game. I would think Phil has a great, great chance of (coming out on top). I think he's capable of being the best."

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