Mickelson says firm Augusta layout will command players' respect

Golf - The Masters - Augusta National Golf Club - Augusta, Georgia, U.S. - April 6, 2021 Phil Mickelson of the U.S. plays from the bunker on the 10th hole during a practice round REUTERS/Mike Segar

AUGUSTA, Ga. (Reuters) - The course set-up for this week's Masters is shaping up to be fast and firm, a stark contrast from last November and one that three-times champion Phil Mickelson says will command respect.

Much is often made of Augusta National's fast, undulating greens, which during practice rounds this week have been much harder and faster than last year when soft conditions allowed players to fire at flagsticks without much fear of consequence.