Phil Mickelson to miss Masters due to family health issue

Three-time champion will be out for an extended period as he tends to a personal matter.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fractured, multi-perspective view of a golfer's swing and the iconic Augusta National clubhouse, rendered in vibrant shades of green, brown, and blue.The absence of two of golf's most celebrated champions, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods, casts a shadow over the 2026 Masters Tournament.Augusta Today

Phil Mickelson announced that he will not compete in the upcoming Masters Tournament next week, citing a family health matter that he and his family are navigating. The three-time Masters champion (2004, 2006, 2010) said he has 'great respect' for Augusta National Golf Club and that it is the 'most special week of the year,' but he will be out for an extended period as he focuses on the personal issue.

Why it matters

Mickelson's absence from the Masters is significant, as he is one of the most decorated and popular golfers in the history of the event. His withdrawal, along with Tiger Woods also missing the tournament, means two of the sport's biggest stars will not be competing at Augusta National this year.

The details

Mickelson, 55, has made 31 career appearances at the Masters, with his first coming in 1991. This will mark just the fourth time he has missed the event. Mickelson also missed the first four events of the LIV Golf season in 2026 while tending to the family health matter, before returning for the LIV South Africa event.

  • Mickelson announced his withdrawal on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • The 2026 Masters Tournament is scheduled for April 9-12, 2026.

The players

Phil Mickelson

A 45-year-old professional golfer who has won 6 major championships, including 3 Masters titles (2004, 2006, 2010).

Tiger Woods

A 46-year-old professional golfer who has won 15 major championships, including 5 Masters titles (1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2019).

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Phil Mickelson

The takeaway

Mickelson's withdrawal from the Masters is a significant loss for the tournament, as he is one of the most accomplished and popular players in the event's history. His absence, along with Tiger Woods also missing, means two of golf's biggest stars will not be competing at Augusta National this year, leaving a void in the field.