Phil Mickelson Withdraws from 2026 Masters Due to Family Health Matter

Phil Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, announced on April 2, 2026, that he will not participate in the upcoming Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club due to a personal health matter involving his family. In his statement, Mickelson expressed his respect for the tournament, calling it "the most special week of the year," and stated, "I wish everyone the best of luck and will be watching." This marks a significant moment in golf history as it will be the first Masters since 1994 without both Mickelson and fellow champion Tiger Woods, who is also stepping away from competition for health reasons.

Phil Mickelson makes unexpected 2026 Masters announcementDaily MailThree-time champion Phil Mickelson to miss Masters for family reasonsBBC NewsNewsweekThe Sporting NewsCBS SportsAugusta National chairman Fred Ridley releases statement on Phil Mickelson missing The MastersESPNThe Sporting News

Mickelson's withdrawal comes after he missed the first four events of the 2026 LIV Golf season, citing the same family health issue. He made a brief return to competitive golf in South Africa, where he finished tied for 48th, but his ongoing family situation has necessitated a longer absence from the sport. Mickelson's last appearance at the Masters was in 2023, where he finished as the runner-up, and he has a storied history at Augusta with three victories (2004, 2006, 2010) and 16 top-10 finishes across 32 starts.

Riverine HeraldDaily MailBBC NewsThree-time champion Phil Mickelson to miss Masters for family reasonsESPNCBS SportsAugusta National chairman Fred Ridley releases statement on Phil Mickelson missing The MastersThe Sporting NewsPhil Mickelson Shares Statement as He Drops Out of 2026 MastersField Level Media - Professional sports content solutions | FLM

Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, expressed support for Mickelson, stating, "We know how much Phil loves the Masters Tournament, and he will be missed by everyone in Augusta next week. He has our complete support as he takes time to be with his family." This sentiment reflects the broader respect and admiration Mickelson has garnered throughout his career, particularly at Augusta.

Phil Mickelson will not compete in Masters TournamentUSA TodayHITCPhil Mickelson Shares Statement as He Drops Out of 2026 MastersAugusta National chairman Fred Ridley releases statement on Phil Mickelson missing The MastersThree-time champion Phil Mickelson to miss Masters for family reasonsThe Sporting NewsCBS SportsBBC NewsDaily Mail

While there has been widespread support for Mickelson during this challenging time, some critics have pointed to his controversial past comments regarding the LIV Golf League and the PGA Tour, which have affected his public image. However, the current focus remains on his family situation, with many fans and fellow golfers expressing their well-wishes for his family's health.

Newsweek

The 2026 Masters, scheduled from April 9 to 12, will proceed with a field of 91 players, with the possibility of an additional participant if the winner of the Valero Texas Open is not already exempt. Mickelson's absence, alongside Woods', highlights a significant shift in the tournament landscape, as both players have been central figures in the sport for decades.

Three-time champion Phil Mickelson to miss Masters for family reasons

• “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.” — Phil Mickelson

BBC News

• “We know how much Phil loves the Masters Tournament, and he will be missed by everyone in Augusta next week. He has our complete support as he takes time to be with his family.” — Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club

USA Today

Mickelson's decision underscores the importance of family health and well-being, a priority that resonates deeply within the sports community.

Newsweek