Mickelson enters Colonial with chance to overtake Tiger

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FORT WORTH, Texas -- Golf could have a new No. 1 player on Sunday night ... but only if Phil Mickelson wins his third Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial.

For the second straight event, Mickelson can overtake Tiger Woods as the world's top player in the Official World Golf Ranking. But a solo second at Colonial won't quite do it -- Mickelson would be 15/100th of a point behind Woods if that happens.

"That would be pretty cool," Mickelson said Wednesday on the eve of the tournament. "Something that we as golfers all strive to be recognized for in the rankings as the best player. It would certainly mean a lot because I have not done that in my career. It would be an accomplishment, I think I would look back on, and be very proud of.

"I think it's easier said than done. The only way to do it is to win here and there is a very strong field here. A lot of great players. Fortunately it's on an a golf course that I have played well on in the past and that I enjoy. And I'm looking forward to that challenge and that opportunity to overtake the top spot."

Woods has reigned as the No. 1 player for the last 259 weeks -- and 601 total for his career. Mickelson has never ascended to world No. 1, and just 11 others have held that spot during the 24-year history of the rankings.

Woods is not playing in the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial this week. But even if Woods is overtaken by Mickelson, he'd have a chance to reclaim the spot, as he and Mickelson will go head-to-head two of the next three weeks.

Woods announced Wednesday that he will defend his title at next week's Memorial Tournament, joining Mickelson in the field. The two are both scheduled to play two weeks later at the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, a course where both have won multiple times.

In terms of the FedExCup rankings, Mickelson has a clear edge. He's No. 3 in this week's standings while Woods, the two-time and defending FedExCup champion, is tied for 156th.