Full Breakdown
Phil Mickelson Withdraws from the 2026 PGA Championship
5/6/2026, 6:21:30 AM
Core Event
The PGA of America announced that six-time major champion Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club (May 14-17). The tournament cited a “personal health matter with his family” as the reason. Mickelson’s spot in the 154-player field was filled by first alternate Max Homa.
Recent Absences and LIV Golf Context
Mickelson has missed the first four LIV Golf events of the 2026 season and the Masters in April, each time citing the same family health issue. He competed in only one LIV tournament (South Africa, March 22), finishing tied for 48th. His limited LIV participation follows the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s decision to end funding after this season, adding uncertainty to the breakaway circuit.
Field Adjustments and Key Players
Mickelson’s exit opened a slot for Max Homa, a 2023 Masters champion. The field also includes defending champion Scottie Scheffler, special-invite LIV captain Dustin Johnson (ranked No. 468), and absent former major winners Tiger Woods and Mickelson himself. Two additional spots remain for the winners of the Truist Championship and the Myrtle Beach Classic.
Timeline of Events
- Feb 1 – Mickelson announces an “extended break” for a family health matter.
- Mar 22 – Plays LIV Golf South Africa, T-48.
- Apr 2 – Skips the Masters, reiterating the family health issue.
- May 5 – PGA of America confirms Mickelson’s withdrawal; Max Homa named replacement.
Official Statements & Responses
- The PGA of America released a statement: “Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the 2026 PGA Championship field due to a personal health matter with his family.”
- Mickelson’s own comment, posted to Flushing It Golf, expressed regret: he wishes he could play but cannot.
- Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said the organization “knows how much Phil loves the Masters tournament, and he will be missed by everyone in Augusta next week.”
- LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil emphasized sensitivity to Mickelson’s situation and expressed hope for his return.
- Dustin Johnson, after receiving a special invitation, said he is “very excited” and believes his game remains competitive in majors.
Criticism & Opposition
PGA Tour golfer Billy Horschel questioned Mickelson’s future on the PGA Tour, stating, “I don’t see a road for Phil Mickelson back to the PGA Tour, even though he’s a lifetime member and he’s done a lot.” The comment reflects broader uncertainty about Mickelson’s long-term role amid LIV Golf’s financial turmoil.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Early coverage varied on Mickelson’s status: some outlets listed him in the field before the withdrawal, while others reported he had not posted on X (formerly Twitter) after the Masters. No source disclosed the specific nature of the family health matter, leaving the precise reason for his absences unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I wish I could. I can’t unfortunately.” — Phil Mickelson, statement to Flushing It Golf
- “We know how much Phil loves the Masters tournament, and he will be missed by everyone in Augusta next week,” — Fred Ridley, Augusta National Chairman
- “I just want to be really sensitive,” O’Neil said. “We all have things going on in our lives that are personal, and his is. I have a lot of love and respect for him as a human being.” — Scott O’Neil, LIV Golf CEO
- “I feel like my game is still good enough to compete with everyone and still can win.” — Dustin Johnson, LIV Golf Virginia
- “I don’t see a road for Phil Mickelson back to the PGA Tour, even though he’s a lifetime member and he’s done a lot,” — Billy Horschel, PGA Tour golfer
Why It Matters
Mickelson’s withdrawal reduces the presence of a high-profile LIV Golf figure in a major championship, highlighting the ongoing tension between the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and traditional majors. The replacement of a two-time PGA champion with Max Homa reshapes the competitive landscape, while the special invitation to Dustin Johnson underscores the PGA of America’s effort to maintain a strong field amid notable absences.
