I always likened it to being ranked #1 during the college football season - essentially meaningless.

I would think that Montie and Greg Norman would trade in all their days at #1 for a few more majors (or one in Montie's case).

but doesn't come remotely close to winning a major. I also think for Phil his career is distinguished enough that not having been #1 has no bearing whatsoever on anything for him - how he's perceived, respect, career fulfillment, etc. It's just a fun and interesting fact, as offered by 84david.