Four-time Major winning Phil Mickelson called for inceased security when Chinese fans attending this week’s WGC – HSBC Champions event went crackers.

Unlike a great many players Mickelson is ever-obliging when it comes to signing autographs, and his fellow competitors could do well to take a leaf out of the American’s book.

It is for this reason Mickelson is so popular with golf fans where ever he travels.

But after posting a third round 66 to move to within three strokes of the lead, and in an event he captured in both 2008 and 2009, Mickelson returned after his round to happily sign autographs.

However the enthusiasm shown by those seeking Mickelson’s autograph took security by surprise.

Three security officers who have shadowed  the American all week could not cope with the crowd enthuisasm so police and other security personnel rushed to near the recording area.

Mickelson could be heard asking for anyone to speak Chinese and when that person came forward he said that if anyone got injured in the push to get his autograph he would have to stop signing.

But it seemed to have little effect as the photographs below reveal.

Phil Mickelson finds himself being mobbed for an autograph after his third round of the WGC – HSBC Champions event. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Security fight to control enthusiastic crowds seeking Phil Mickelson’s autograph. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)