Four-time major-winner Phil Mickelson and India's Jeev Milkha Singh yesterday hailed the historic achievement of China's Guan Tianlang in qualifying for the US Masters at the age of just 14.

Mickelson said he was excited that Asian amateurs had the chance to reach the masters, through the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship won by Guan on Sunday, while Singh called it "fantastic".

Guangzhou-based Guan will become the prestigious tournament's youngest ever player when he tees off aged 14 years, five months and 17 days.

"Fourteen years old and playing the masters. I don't think I'd be able to tee-off on the first hole, I'd be so nervous," said Singh. "I think it's fantastic to see that Chinese kid win and gets into the masters. I think it's a fantastic thing that the Augusta National people have introduced for the top amateur guys to play.

"I think he should just cherish that and make the most out of the week. And my advice to him would be to just stay patient and don't get carried away. Just do what he is doing to win and enjoy every moment."

Mickelson said Guan's solid putting, which he needed when saving par on his final hole for a one-shot win, would help him at the famed Augusta course.

"I think it is exciting that amateur players all across Asia have a chance to compete in probably the best tournament in the world," Mickelson said.

"It helps young kids dream and aspire to greatness in the game and I think this is really a great thing. I've not seen him play, I heard he's a really great putter which will be key factor in Augusta, and should help him score well."

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)