According to the February GQ article naming Phil Mickelson one of the most hated guys in sports, the other players on the PGA Tour call him “FIGJAM,” which stands for “F**k I’m great, just ask me.”

Why do they call him FIGJAM? Just go to Phil’s official Web site www.philmickelson.com which contains Phil’s letters to his fans and a description of what a truly warm, caring, cuddly, charitable, big-lug-you-love-to-hug Phil really is.

Excerpt: “What separates Mickelson from his peers is there truly is more to this young man than his smooth swing, silky putting stroke, booming drives off the tee and creativity around the greens. He represents a link to the past, a link to the greats who have made the game what it is today. Jones. Hagen. Sarazen. Nelson. Hogan. Snead. Palmer. Nicklaus. Watson.“

Conclusion: Unlike his peers, Phil is more than just a golfer. He’s larger than life, a symbol, an extension of golf’s lineage, a link to the great players of the past.

Excerpt: “There are many players who have come along since Watson that have displayed tremendous skill and accomplishment on the course, adding their names to the record books. Of these, few, if any, have matched the off-course respect from his peers and business community and personal respect for the game more than Phil Mickelson.“

Conclusion: The key phrases here are “few, if any” and “off-course.” Not only do his fellow PGA Tour players respect him as an opponent, but they respect him even more as a human being.

Excerpt: “Phil Mickelson understands. He has made it his mission to carry on the legacy set forth by the landmark players before him. Times have changed and golf has become more popular than ever. But to Phil, as with every true competitor and champion, winning is the ultimate measuring stick. But winning with class, humility, integrity and a true respect for one’s place in history is what moves one from greatness to legendary.“

Conclusion: Phil isn’t merely one of golf’s greatest players; he’s also one of the most humble. We know that because he respects his own place in history and he won’t be satisfied until he’s a legend.

Excerpt: “Mickelson has grown from the All-American boy into a well-rounded role model and family man. The birth of his daughter, Amanda Brynn, the day after his runner-up finish at the 1999 U.S. Open has brought new perspective to Mickelson’s life. While winning continues to be the priority on the course and a hunger still remains for making his imprint on golf history, being a great father to his three children (Amanda, Sophia and Evan) continues to deliver the most satisfaction.“

Conclusion: Readers, draw your own.