Phil Mickelson has timed a hot streak to coincide with Tiger Woods's return and goes to Augusta in fine fettle to claim a third Masters title.

The 38-year-old left-hander has won twice already this season and was close to overtaking Woods at the top of the rankings, but for his rival's victory at Bay Hill.

Mickelson won the last of his three major titles at the Masters in 2006 and has largely played the bridesmaid to Woods.

But there are signs the rivalry that has promised much but delivered little will bear fruit among the lush confines of Augusta.