Thrust under a non-sporting spotlight - news late on Friday of a federal probe into possible insider trading involving him, billionaire investor Carl Icahn and Las Vegas gambler William Walters - Mickelson was the picture of composed. Always exciting to watch, Mickelson has established a reputation for becoming one of the most meticulous practitioners in the game with his build-up to the big events, plotting out his strategy and club selection in careful fashion. *** While capable of driving up television ratings almost single-handedly when in contention for one of the sport's bigger events, Mickelson is also admired for being a committed family man and a generous donor to various charities. *** He brought his unique skills to the PGA Tour in spectacular style by winning the 1991 Northern Telecom Open as an amateur, a feat which has not been matched since, and has gone on to clinch a further 41 titles, including five major championships. *** Despite the probe into possible insider trading, for the moment he will likely be given the benefit of any doubt by golf fans because of his public status as a 'people's champion'. More...