As a 3-time Masters winner, Phil Mickelson has been a staple at Augusta National. Fans will be disappointed to learn that Mickelson will not be playing at the 2026 Masters.
More concerning than Mickelson’s absence at Augusta is the star revealing that the family is dealing with an unspecified health issue. Mickelson announced the news on social media but declined to specify whether it is himself or a family member dealing with health concerns.
“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,” Mickelson said in an April 2, 2026, Instagram post. “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.”
Here’s what you need to know about the latest golf news.
Phil Mickelson Cited Wife Amy Mickelson in Previous Statement on Absence From Golf
The news comes after Mickelson made a similar announcement about his LIV Golf availability on February 1. Mickelson also referenced himself and his wife Amy Mickelson as dealing with a “family health matter” as the reason for his absence.
“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,” Mickelson detailed. “I can’t wait to compete again and look forward to rejoining my teammates as soon as possible.
“In the meantime, Ollie Schniederjans will step in for me in Riyadh as I root on HyFlyers GC from afar.”
Phil Mickelson’s Wife Amy & Mother Both Previously Battled Cancer
Mickelson’s family has unfortunately previously dealt with health challenges. Back in 2009, it was revealed that Mickelson’s wife and mother both were diagnosed with breast cancer.
“We have a wonderful team of doctors helping us, and it is believed that we caught this early,” Mickelson said of his wife’s previous diagnosis back in May 2009, per ESPN. “We are anxiously waiting for a number of test results that will help guide us in the best possible direction.
“… Amy is such a supportive and loving life partner. She has always put me and our family first. Now it’s time for her and her health to come first as we face this challenge together.”
Phil Mickelson Bolted the PGA Tour for LIV Golf in 2022
Unfortunately for most fans, Mickelson is no longer a weekly part of golf news. Mickelson left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf in 2022. This means the only PGA Tour event Mickelson and other LIV golfers are eligible to play are majors like the Masters.
“I am ready to come back to play the game I love but after 32 years this new path is a fresh start, one that is exciting for me at this stage of my career and is clearly transformative, not just for myself but ideally for the game and my peers,” Mickelson said in 2022 announcing the move, per CBS Sports.
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