Mickelson credits Tiger for helping him reach his 'level of success'

Tiger Woods' impact on the game of golf is undeniable. According to one of Woods' biggest rivals, however, his impact on the games' players was equally indelible.

On Tuesday, Mickelson was candid about the influence Woods had on his game, fitness, and overall success.

"I feel as though had Tiger not come around, I don't feel I would have pushed myself to achieve what I ended up achieving," Mickelson said, according to Golf.com's Kevin Cunningham. "He forced everybody to get the best out of themselves. He forced everybody to work a little bit harder."

Tiger's dedication to fitness and his commitment to staying in the best shape possible led Mickelson to change his own approach on the physical side of the game, leading Lefty to a career littered with trophies.

"I don't think I would have had the same level of success had he not come around."

Thursday's opening-round action of the PGA Championship from Quail Hollow in Charlotte, N.C., will mark the 100th major tournament of Mickelson's storied career.