Stars align for weary Walker

Phil focused on majors

Phil Mickelson has not won a title since capturing his fifth major crown at the 2013 British Open, but the 46-year-old American left-hander still likes his chances at majors.

Mickelson, who battled Henrik Stenson in the final round of the British Open two weeks ago before settling for second, fired a two-under par 68 on Sunday to finish with a three-under 277 at the PGA Championship, well behind the leaders over a rain-soaked Baltusrol course.

After struggling since his major win at Muirfield, Mickelson is finally excited to play again because he can feel top form returning.

"Certainly the play this year at the British tells me that I'm able to play at a high level," Mickelson said. "I'm starting to see my game come back. I'm starting to hit the shots again, what I'm visualizing, and doing it with ease now.

"I don't know what would hold me back. My love for the game and desire is as strong as it has ever been. It has taken me a year to get my game back after two and a half years of really struggling. The only thing that's missing is the final result, but it has been very close."

Mickelson was second at Memphis and Pebble Beach this season as well as to Stenson at Royal Troon, but he will have more chances to collect that elusive triumph in the US PGA playoffs.

"I wouldn't say the lack of a win this year would be a failure, but it wouldn't be as successful as I want or expect," Mickelson said. "I'm optimistic heading into these next few events because I'm starting to hit shots."

Agence France-Presse