Joaquin Niemann Opens Up About Phil Mickelson’s Major Victories

Joaquin Niemann’s respect for Phil Mickelson is more than mere fandom; it represents the continuity of greatness in golf

As one champion enters the twilight of his career, another prepares to rise. The sport thrives on such narratives—of mentorship, ambition, and evolution.

Niemann’s reflections ahead of the U.S. Open reveal a player who understands that greatness is both a goal and a journey.

With Mickelson as a guide and inspiration, Niemann is poised to take the next step in his career—armed with belief, driven by curiosity, and grounded in respect for those who paved the way.

Whether or not he lifts the trophy this year, one thing is clear: Joaquin Niemann is on the path to something special.

The recent face-off between Mickelson, Niemann, Smith, and Horvat wasn’t just a throwaway clip—it was a statement.

A signal that golf, despite its traditions, is ready to evolve. It’s embracing humor, youth, digital platforms, and a new form of community-building.

This isn’t about replacing the old guard but enriching it. When a 50-something icon like Mickelson can engage meaningfully with a content creator in his 20s, it sends a powerful message: golf is for everyone.

And as LIV Golf and the PGA Tour continue to ride this momentum, we may soon see the day where digital creators become as vital to the sport’s ecosystem as the players themselves.

Also Read: Joaquin Niemann Wife Christina Hellema Puga Bio, Career, Age, Height, Relationship, Affairs, Net Worth 2023, Controversy and More

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Joaquin Niemann Eyes Major Glory, Inspired by Phil Mickelson’s Legacy

Joaquin Niemann, one of golf’s rising stars, is setting his sights on major championship success.¹

Ahead of the 2024 U.S. Open, the 25-year-old Chilean golfer shared his aspirations and insights into the mental approach required to win at the highest level.

Drawing inspiration from Phil Mickelson—whose legendary career includes six major titles—Niemann opened up about the mindset that fuels his ambition and the influence Mickelson has had on his development.

A Rising Star with Big Dreams

Joaquin Niemann has been steadily climbing the ranks of professional golf since turning pro in 2018.

With multiple international victories and a unique flair for shot-making, Niemann has caught the attention of fans and legends alike. Yet, one milestone continues to elude him: a major championship victory.

At the pre-tournament press conference for the 2024 U.S. Open, Niemann didn’t shy away from discussing his major ambitions. He acknowledged that while he’s yet to earn one, he fully believes in his potential to win multiple.

“I know that I don’t have any majors yet. I know if I have one, I know I’m going to have another one and then another one, and that’s the way it works,” he said confidently.

Phil Mickelson’s Mindset: A Blueprint for Success

Niemann’s admiration for Phil Mickelson is no secret. The veteran golfer, known for his creativity and relentless drive, has carved a unique path in the sport.

His six major titles include three Masters, two PGA Championships, and one Open Championship. Perhaps even more remarkable is his victory at the 2021 PGA Championship at age 50, making him the oldest major winner in history.

Reflecting on Mickelson’s achievements, Niemann noted the hunger that drives champions. “He’s probably not happy having only six majors. But I feel like that’s just how the human being is.

You always want more,” Niemann observed. It’s this desire for continuous growth, even at the pinnacle of success, that Niemann finds so compelling.

The Masters Practice Round: A Lesson from a Legend

One of the most formative experiences for Niemann came during a practice round with Mickelson at the Masters.

He recounted how Mickelson’s preparation and depth of knowledge left a lasting impression. “He was making me hit putts from all over the place, know this, remember this,” Niemann said.

Mickelson, renowned for his detailed course notes and mental game, imparted a level of intensity that Niemann admired.

“Phil is really intense with the game, with his approach to the game and the way he sees the game. He wants to learn,” Niemann added. This deep intellectual engagement with golf is something Niemann now seeks to emulate.

Joaquin Niemann’s Evolution: From Student to Competitor

Joaquin Niemann is no longer just a wide-eyed young talent learning from his idols. In many ways, he has become their peer.²

Yet, the influence of a player like Mickelson is a reminder that learning never stops—especially in a game as complex and evolving as golf.

Niemann’s progression from promising junior to serious major contender has been marked by constant refinement.

Whether it’s adding precision to his iron play or building resilience under pressure, Niemann has grown into a well-rounded competitor.

The philosophical approach that Mickelson shared with him—of always seeking improvement—is now firmly ingrained in Niemann’s mindset.

Market research for @TorqueGC_ 👀🔩💨 pic.twitter.com/3qcPOPUFyO

— joaconiemann (@joaconiemann) March 5, 2023

The Mental Game: Belief and Momentum

Niemann’s comments underscore the crucial role of mental strength in professional golf.

The belief that winning one major can lead to a cascade of victories is more than optimistic—it’s a psychological strategy employed by many greats.

Confidence breeds performance. For Niemann, visualizing himself as a multiple-major winner is part of building the self-belief necessary to get there.

Mickelson’s own career offers a compelling example. It took him 12 years as a professional to win his first major, the 2004 Masters.

Once that barrier was broken, five more titles followed. Niemann appears to be taking a similar long-term view of his career trajectory.

Joaquin Niemann: Chasing Greatness, Not Just Trophies

There’s a broader message in Niemann’s admiration for Mickelson: greatness in golf isn’t just measured by silverware.³

It’s about how a player engages with the game, mentors others, and adapts over time. Mickelson is known as much for his leadership and innovation as he is for his titles.

Niemann, by recognizing and valuing these traits, shows maturity beyond his years.

It’s also a reflection of how today’s younger generation of golfers see themselves—not only as athletes but also as students of the game.

Mickelson’s willingness to share knowledge during that Masters practice round is symbolic of a golf culture where experience and wisdom are passed down from one generation to the next.

Off the Course: A Bond Beyond Competition

Beyond competition, Niemann and Mickelson’s relationship has extended into collaboration. The two golfers recently appeared in a video project together, reflecting mutual respect and camaraderie.

While details of the collaboration weren’t deeply discussed during the press conference, it’s clear that their rapport is more than superficial.

This off-course interaction adds another dimension to Niemann’s admiration. It’s one thing to compete alongside a legend. It’s another to build a relationship based on shared values, passion for the game, and mutual learning.

The Road Ahead: Niemann’s Major Campaign

As the 2024 U.S. Open looms, all eyes are on Niemann. With his game in solid form and his mindset focused on long-term success, he enters the championship as one of the most intriguing players to watch.

His statements suggest not just a hunger for a trophy, but a deep-rooted commitment to a process—one that values growth, learning, and persistence.

He doesn’t just want to win a major—he wants to build a legacy. And in doing so, Niemann is following a blueprint that has served legends like Mickelson well.

Also Read: Joaquin Niemann Sees LIV Golf Growing Positively and Proposes Solution for Major Issue

Phil Mickelson and Joaquin Niemann Engage in a Lighthearted Face-Off

In a playful and entertaining twist, golf legends Phil Mickelson and Joaquin Niemann recently teamed up with social media content creators Carter Smith and Grant Horvat for a lighthearted showdown.

The humorous Instagram reel, released on May 27, showcased a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere as Smith jokingly set up a face-off: Mickelson and Horvat vs. Niemann and himself.

While the vibe remained playful, the message was clear—golf is undergoing a cultural shift, and collaborations between professionals and influencers are no longer just novelties.

As Niemann teased, “They are scared of losing this. They know we gonna beat them,” the light banter highlighted the fun but meaningful purpose behind the encounter: to merge traditional golf with the dynamic appeal of social media.

The Rise of Golf Collaborations with Social Media Influencers

In recent years, professional golf has seen a strategic pivot toward including digital personalities in its sphere.
Influencers such as Grant Horvat, who gained fame through YouTube golf challenges and vlogs, bring a different energy to the game—more accessible, humorous, and often appealing to a younger audience that might not typically tune in to PGA or LIV Golf events.
Carter Smith, likewise, represents a new wave of content creators passionate about golf but unbound by its historic traditions.
By engaging these figures, established golf entities like LIV Golf and the PGA Tour are attempting to bridge the generational gap and keep the sport relevant in a digital-first world.
Phil Mickelson, a six-time major winner and one of golf’s most enduring personalities, might seem like an unlikely digital ambassador. But he has embraced the social media age with open arms.
From witty Twitter comebacks to surprise content collaborations, Mickelson has shown that age and legacy don’t have to clash with modern relevance.
Joaquin Niemann, on the other hand, is part of the new wave of young global stars. Hailing from Chile and just 26 years old, Niemann combines elite play with an approachable personality, making him ideal for crossover content.
His willingness to joke around and lean into these influencer collaborations only further cements his role as a player who understands today’s sporting landscape.

Joaquin Niemann: Attracting the Next Generation of Golf Fans

Golf, often criticized for its rigid traditions and lack of relatability, is now seeing a renaissance.

By embracing humor, personality, and accessibility through social media influencers, the sport is opening its doors to a generation that prefers YouTube clips over televised coverage and memes over Masters commentary.

This isn’t just good PR—it’s vital for growth. Gen Z and Millennial audiences are less likely to engage with golf in its traditional forms.

But when they see a figure like Grant Horvat joking around with Phil Mickelson or Carter Smith confidently challenging Joaquin Niemann, they’re far more likely to be intrigued, follow, and even play the sport themselves.

Competitive Spirit with a Smile

While these matchups are staged with an emphasis on fun, don’t let the laughter fool you—there’s still a competitive edge.

Mickelson, known for his laser-sharp focus, doesn’t step onto a course without the will to win. Likewise, Niemann, despite his youth, is a fierce competitor who has already made a name for himself on the global stage.

The inclusion of social media stars doesn’t dilute the challenge; rather, it enhances it by introducing different skill sets and an unpredictable dynamic.

These are not just games—they are new-age exhibitions that fuse authenticity, comedy, and skill.

Joaquin Niemann: Mexico Trip

Joaquin Niemann shared glimpses from his Mexico golf trip driving average from the first round.

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What Fans Can Expect at the 2025 US Open

As the sport continues its evolution, Joaquin Niemann’s upcoming appearance at the 2025 U.S. Open will provide a stage for serious play.

But even there, the impact of influencer culture is likely to be felt—whether through collaborative content during practice rounds or behind-the-scenes vlogs that humanize the sport.

Expect more social content, more audience interaction, and a more relaxed vibe that complements the high-stakes competition.

For Niemann, participating in both worlds—entertainment and elite competition—is not a contradiction but a strategic balance.

The Future of Golf is a Hybrid Experience

The modern golf fan wants more than just televised tournaments. They want immersive experiences, real-time updates, and the feeling that they’re part of the action.

This is where influencer collaborations shine. By inviting fans into the fun, informal side of golf, they deepen engagement and expand the sport’s cultural relevance.

Whether it’s a viral trick shot, a behind-the-scenes moment, or a laugh shared between a legend and a newcomer, these moments redefine how golf is consumed—and more importantly, who consumes it.

Joaquin Niemann Opens Up About Phil Mickelson’s Major Victories