It doesn't seem that long ago when Phil Mickelson was the golfer who couldn't win the big one.

Even after he finally won a few Major Championships, he was still second best. Tiger Woods had Mickelson's number. Lefty would never be as good as Woods.

What a difference a few years make.

Now the tables have turned and it's Woods who seemingly falters whenever Mickelson stands in his way of a victory.

This weekend's Pebble Beach National Pro-Am was no different.

Mickelson picked up his 40th PGA Tour win as he stormed back to take the title by two strokes. He shot an 8-under 64 in the final round to edge Charlie Wi, who led the competition after three rounds.

The story at the start of the round was surrounding Woods. He was just one shot out of the lead after six holes and seemed ready to claim his first Tour win in over two years.

Mickelson had other plans.

Mickelson thrived under the pressure and played his best when he needed to the most. He sunk a 40-foot par putt on the 15 hole to take the lead for good, and closed out the round with a birdie on 18.

Woods played his worst when a victory was on the line. He had five bogeys in the final round and finished nine shots behind Mickelson.

A few years ago, Woods may have beaten Mickelson to take the win. In 2012, there was no question who would come out victorious.

Mickelson is now 13-13-4 against Woods when the two are paired against each other. More importantly, the win makes it five straight head-to-head wins over his rival.

Does Mickelson now have Tiger's number?

According to Mickelson, he's just had a good run.

It's only been the past five years -- before, I got spanked pretty good. Let's not forget the big picture here. I've been beat up. But the last five years, I've been able to get some of my best golf out when we play together.

This may be more than just a hot streak against Woods. Woods hasn't been the same golfer the past few years, and seemingly falls apart in moments where he used to shine.

Woods' short game killed him down the stretch on Sunday. What used to be his strength was his downfall.

Golf needs the Woods-Mickelson rivalry. The overnight rating for the final round at Pebble Beach was the best the tourney had seen in 15 years. It's no coincidence this happened when both Woods and Mickelson had a chance to win.

Rivalries are great for every sport. The best rivalries are those that feature two teams or players at the top of their game.

If Woods doesn't start playing like his old self soon, this won't be much of a rivalry.

Tiger Woods Tiger Woods