Phil Mickelson withdraws from Masters due to family health matter

Three-time champion will miss tournament for first time in 32 years

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented golf course scene with players, spectators, and the Augusta National clubhouse, rendered in shades of green, tan, and blue, conceptually representing the void left by the absence of two of golf's biggest stars.The absence of golf legends Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods from the 2026 Masters tournament will leave a void in the sport's most prestigious event.Oakmont Today

Three-time Masters champion Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the 2026 tournament, citing a personal health matter with his family that has kept him out of most of the LIV Golf events this year. Mickelson said he will be out for an extended period as his family continues to navigate the situation.

Why it matters

Mickelson's withdrawal marks the first time in 32 years that both he and Tiger Woods will not be competing at the Masters, one of golf's most prestigious major championships. The absence of two of the sport's biggest stars will be felt by fans and the tournament organizers.

The details

Mickelson, who has won the Masters three times, posted on social media that he will not play in the 2026 tournament next week. He said his family is dealing with a personal health matter that has caused him to miss all but one of the five LIV Golf events so far this year.

  • Mickelson posted the announcement on his social media accounts on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

The players

Phil Mickelson

A three-time Masters champion and one of the most successful and popular golfers of his generation.

Tiger Woods

A five-time Masters champion and one of the greatest golfers of all time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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.”

— Phil Mickelson

The takeaway

Mickelson's withdrawal is a significant loss for the Masters, as his absence along with Tiger Woods' will leave a noticeable void at one of golf's most prestigious events. The focus will now shift to how Mickelson's family health situation develops and when he may return to the sport.