Phil Mickelson has announced he will be withdrawing from the 2026 Masters tournament owing to personal family circumstances. The three-time Masters champion made the switch to LIV Golf in 2022 and has been largely absent from the 2026 season thus far, making his seasonal debut in South Africa while missing the first four events of the Saudi-backed circuit.

Now the 45-time PGA Tour and six-time major winner has been ruled out of contention for the coveted green jacket.

"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," wrote Mickelson on X.

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"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."

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Mickelson spent more than 25 years in the world top 50 and would have been making his 33rd appearance at Augusta National in 2026. He is also just one of eight players to have won the Masters at least three times and claimed low amateur honours on his tournament debut back in 1991.

Mickelson issued a comparable statement prior to missing the first two LIV Golf events, once again citing family difficulties.

"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 wrote.

"I can't wait to compete again and look forward to rejoining my teammates as soon as possible." Mickelson embarked on his 35th year as a professional golfer this season with his HyFlyers team, and expressed his delight at returning to competition.

"It's just fun to be back playing," said Mickelson as Bryson DeChambeau claimed victory at The Club at Steyn City. "I really missed it. I really missed it. I'm glad I'm here. I wish I played better the first day, but I'm really having fun. It's just fun to be back playing."

Looking towards the 2026 season, Mickelson spoke positively following an encouraging campaign on LIV Golf. He secured 24th place in the points standings and finished inside the lock zone for the first time since joining the circuit, while claiming a solo third-place finish in Hong Kong last season.

"Last year was a good year for me," Mickelson remarked during a league event in January. "I started to play well. Had a couple of good chances, which was exciting and motivating for me.

"Playing against this many great players each week is difficult but it's exciting. I love the challenge. Heading into 2026, I've very optimistic and excited what the year may bring."

Mickelson captured the Masters in 2004, 2006 and 2010, and will step away from competition for the 2026 season.