Tiger Woods Names Phil Mickelson and Vijay Singh as the Two Best Players He Faced in Golf History

In a resurfaced 2020 interview with GolfTV, golf legend Tiger Woods revealed the two players he considers the toughest opponents of his illustrious career: Phil Mickelson and Vijay Singh. Notably absent from the list was Rory McIlroy, sparking discussion among fans and analysts.

Woods, a 15-time major champion, praised Mickelson for his flair and resilience, highlighting his 45 PGA Tour wins, including six majors, with his most recent being the 2021 PGA Championship at age 50, making him the oldest major winner in history. Woods noted Mickelson’s “flamboyant style” and ability to pull off miraculous recovery shots, which made him a formidable competitor during the 2000s and 2010s.

Vijay Singh, a World Golf Hall of Famer with 34 PGA Tour victories, was lauded for his consistent ball-striking and power off the tee, which helped him dominate at the peak of his career. Woods specifically pointed to Singh’s work ethic and precision as reasons he stood out as one of the best.

The exclusion of Rory McIlroy, a four-time major winner and one of golf’s biggest stars, surprised some, given his consistent excellence and head-to-head battles with Woods. However, Woods’ selections reflect the era when he and his rivals were at their peak, with Mickelson and Singh challenging him during his prime years.

The comments, originally made in 2020, have regained attention in 2025, trending on X as fans debate Woods’ choices and McIlroy’s omission. This insight into Woods’ perspective offers a fascinating look at the rivalries that shaped his career and continues to fuel discussions about golf’s greatest players.