Phil Mickelson Withdraws from Masters Due to Family Health Matter

Three-time Masters champion Phil Mickelson will not compete in next week's tournament, citing a personal family health matter. The 55-year-old announced his withdrawal on Thursday, stating he will be out for an extended period. This marks his first absence from the Masters since 2022, when he took a self-imposed break following controversial remarks about Saudi Arabia. Mickelson had recently returned to competition after missing the first four LIV Golf events of 2026 due to the same health issue. He finished tied for 48th in his most recent appearance in South Africa. The Masters, scheduled for April 9-12 at Augusta National Golf Club, will proceed without Mickelson, who expressed his respect for the tournament and wished competitors well. Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley released a statement supporting Mickelson, noting his absence will be felt by fans and players alike. The news follows Tiger Woods' decision to step away from golf after a recent DUI arrest and car crash. Both golf legends, who dominated the sport for decades, will be absent from the 90th edition of the Masters.