Masters warm-up hampered by rain

World number four Mickelson is the star attraction in Atlanta

Torrential rain in Atlanta has wiped out the start of this week's PGA Tour event, the BellSouth Classic.

After an eight-hour delay, officials finally decided to call play off for the day without a ball being hit.

This is the eighth of 14 US events to be delayed by poor weather, with February's Nissan Open the first in nine years to be reduced to 36 holes.

British star Luke Donald, runner-up in the rain-hit Players Championship, has decided to pull out of the event.

He said: "Last week was obviously a very long week and I was very, very tired.

"It was mental and physical having to play almost two rounds in one day in wet conditions and windy conditions.

I think this tournament should have the respect given to all of the others Phil Mickelson

The first major of the season, the Masters, starts next week in nearby Augusta.

Phil Mickelson, who will defend his title in Georgia, is not concerned by the prospect of being delayed in Atlanta for an extra day.

"I think this tournament should have the respect given to all of the others," he said.

"I love the way the tour has been really making the commitment to getting 72 holes in.

"There are great practice facilities here too and it gives me a great opportunity to get sharp and not worry about what's coming up next week. Hopefully I'll be able to play well and get some momentum."

Mickelson spent a day at Augusta on Tuesday and worked specifically on his driving, which went a little awry at the Players Championship.

"I just addressed a little issue on why the ball was going left and it's going a little bit straighter now," he said.

"I've put in a lot of time. Now it's time to start having it pay off."