Rose Eyes “Golden Summer” After FedEx St Jude Triumph, Inspired by Mickelson’s Longevity

Veteran golfer Justin Rose is aiming for a resurgence in his mid-40s, drawing inspiration from Phil Mickelson‘s late-career success as he targets a “golden summer” of golf following his victory at the FedEx St Jude Championship.

Oldest European PGA Tour Winner in Modern Era

At 45, Rose has become the oldest European to secure a PGA Tour win in the modern era, defeating JJ Spaun in a playoff. This triumph marks his first win since February 2023.

The Englishman’s performance positions him second in the automatic qualifying spots for the upcoming Ryder Cup in September, signalling a potential seventh appearance in the prestigious event.

“There’s a pretty short list of guys that are competitive in that 45 to 50 sort of age range. Obviously Phil Mickelson bucked the trend. He won a major at 51. I feel like that’s good motivation.”

—Justin Rose

Rose, who has come agonizingly close to major victories in recent years, including runner-up finishes at the Masters and The Open, believes these near misses are indicators of his continued ability to contend at the highest level.

Major Aspirations Remain Strong

Despite experiencing heartbreak in past major championships, notably losing the Masters in a playoff, Rose feels he is still capable of adding to his solitary major title from the 2013 US Open. He expressed excitement about the potential for his career’s latter stages.

“Will I ever be the best player that I was when I was maybe 2018 No 1 in the world? I don’t know, but I don’t have to be, I don’t think, as long as I can find it at the key times,” Rose stated.

Rose made four birdies in a row to force a play off with JJ Spaun at the St Jude Championship

— Sky Sports Golf (@SkySportsGolf) August 10, 2023

He added, “this one felt good. I felt like I had to hit the shots, I had to step up again and again and again in the playoff. I felt ready for it. I felt calm. I felt collected. I think that’s when you learn most about yourself.”

Expert Praise for Rose’s Clutch Play

Former Ryder Cup player David Howell highlighted Rose‘s enduring ability to perform under pressure.

“Rose was special when he came on the tour at 17 years old, finishing fourth at The Open. He had it from the word go. He’s kept it going for the best part of three decades, which is remarkable, and he has incredible belief in his own abilities, when it really matters. He realises he wasn’t going to be as consistent in this period of his career compared to 10 years ago but in the big moments, he’s got it just as well as anyone else.”

—David Howell, Sky Sports Golf Analyst

Howell believes Rose‘s recent victory will provide a significant mental boost, reinforcing his belief that he can continue to compete and even win in his 50s, much like Mickelson, who captured the PGA Championship at 50.

Golfers in their 40s and 50s have demonstrated remarkable success in recent years, with LeBron James, for example, continuing to dominate in the NBA well into his late 30s, showing that peak physical and mental performance can be sustained with dedication. This trend suggests a shifting paradigm in athletic longevity.

Sky Sports will provide comprehensive coverage of the BMW Championship, part of the FedExCup Playoffs, with all rounds available on Sky Sports Golf and additional coverage on Sky Sports+.