Mickelson to miss Masters & take ‘extended’ break from golf

Phil Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, has announced he will not compete in this year’s tournament, marking his fourth absence since his debut at Augusta National in 1991. The decision comes as the golfer steps back from the sport for an unspecified duration due to a family health issue. Mickelson shared the news on X, expressing his disappointment while emphasizing his commitment to supporting his loved ones during this challenging time.

“Unfortunately, I will not play in the Masters Tournament next week and will be out for an extended period of time as my family continues to navigate a personal health matter. I have great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it is definitely the most special week of the year. I wish everyone the best of luck and will be watching.”

The 55-year-old’s last withdrawal from the Masters occurred in 2022, following a contentious remark about the LIV Golf initiative. This year’s event, scheduled from 9 to 12 April, will see both Mickelson and Tiger Woods absent for the first time since 1994. Mickelson had previously skipped the first four LIV Golf events in 2026, held in Riyadh, Adelaide, Hong Kong, and Singapore, citing a “family health matter” on 1 February.

Despite returning to competition last month at Steyn City in South Africa, where he placed 48th, Mickelson’s participation in the Masters remains uncertain. His absence from the 2023 tournament saw him miss the cut, but he has claimed two US PGA Championships and a Open Championship title at Muirfield in 2013. Only Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Arnold Palmer have secured more Masters victories than Mickelson, with Nicklaus holding the record at six.