Why did Phil Mickelson skip Masters 2026 and take sudden break from golf as family situation unfolds (Image via Getty)
Phil Mickelson will not play in the 2026 Masters. The three-time champion shared the news himself and said he needs to step away from golf for some time because of a serious family health issue.
The update came just days before the tournament at Augusta National, where he has built some of the biggest moments of his career. Posting on X, Phil Mickelson wrote, “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.”This means the 55-year-old will miss one of the biggest events of the year. It also adds to a rare moment in golf, as Tiger Woods is also not part of the field. For the first time since 1994, neither Phil Mickelson nor Tiger Woods will be seen at the Masters.
Phil Mickelson confirms Masters withdrawal while dealing with family health issue and steps away from LIV Golf schedule
Phil Mickelson has already missed multiple events this year on the LIV Golf schedule. Earlier, on February 1, he shared that he and his wife Amy Mickelson needed to stay in the United States due to a family health matter.
He said, “I will not be able to participate in the first two LIV events as Amy and I need to be present for a family health matter.”LIV Golf events this season have taken place in countries like Saudi Arabia, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Africa. Phil Mickelson only returned once and played in South Africa, where he finished tied for 48th place. Since then, he has not played again, and now it is unclear when he will return to the course.
Phil Mickelson and Amy Mickelson family history adds context as no details shared about current situation
Phil Mickelson and Amy Mickelson have been through a similar situation before. In 2009, Amy Mickelson was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time, Phil Mickelson paused his golf career to stay by her side during treatment.Amy Mickelson later recovered after surgery and treatment. She was declared cancer-free shortly before Phil Mickelson won his third Masters title in 2010.Right now, Phil Mickelson has not shared any details about the current health issue. The couple has three children, and the family has chosen to keep the matter private.
