Phil Mickelson excited for 'favorite week' after missing Masters last year

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Phil Mickelson is back at Augusta for the first time since 2021, but this time, it's not without controversy.

The lefty, of course, is probably the biggest name that defected to LIV Golf, the controversial Saudi-backed golf tour.

Despite the war of words between him, and other LIVers, and the PGA Tour and some of its participants, it's always good to be back in Georgia.

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Phil Mickelson of The United States plays his second shot on the 14th hole during practice prior to the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 4, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia.  (David Cannon/Getty Images)

"It's great," Mickelson said. "It's fun to be back. Everyone has been wonderful. "Everybody here is so classy. Gosh, it's fun to be here."

"It is my favorite week, so being here and being a part of it, and being able to experience this great place and what it means is so fun because, as a kid, you grow up dreaming about being a part of this," Mickelson added. "You dream of winning it, being in contention, and then when you actually are a pro and you are playing here, you're like, 'Wow, I want to be a part of this every year.'

"That's the coolest thing about having won here is that you're a part of this event and part of the history. It's a really, really special thing."

It's the 52-year-old's 30th Masters, and he's hoping for his fourth green jacket. However, since an historic win at Kiawah Island for the PGA Championship in 2021, it's been a rough go on the links.

Phil Mickelson of the United States talks with his caddie Tim Mickelson warms up on the practice areaduring a practice round prior