Phil Mickelson withdraws from PGA Championship amid family health concerns
Phil Mickelson has clarified confusion after his name appeared on the official entry list for next week’s PGA Championship at Aronimink, Pennsylvania, reports BritPanorama. Tournament organisers have confirmed that the 55-year-old will not participate, citing ongoing family health concerns in a statement.
The statement read: “Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the 2026 PGA Championship field due to a personal health matter with his family. Max Homa is now in the field.”
Mickelson, a six-time major champion, further elaborated on his situation while speaking to Flushing It Golf: “I wish I could. I can’t unfortunately.” His absence from the tournament follows a troubling year for the golfer, who has competed in only a single event throughout 2026 as he navigates his family’s health challenges.
In March, the American returned briefly for a LIV Golf tournament in South Africa but stepped away from competition shortly thereafter. His withdrawal from the Masters in April marked a significant absence from the golfing calendar, highlighting ongoing personal matters off the course.
In February, Mickelson addressed the issue publicly on X, stating, “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.” He later explained his Masters withdrawal, noting he would be out for an extended period due to the same family issue.
Mickelson has been a strong competitor in the PGA Championship, claiming titles in 2005 and 2021 and has missed the event only once since debuting in 1993. He and his wife, Amy, have three children, although no specifics on the family’s health situation have been disclosed. The golfer transitioned from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf in 2022, reportedly securing a substantial contract worth $200 million (£147.6m).
His continued absence comes amid uncertainty surrounding LIV’s future, as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has announced it will end its financial backing this summer. Meanwhile, his colleague Jon Rahm has agreed to a deal to play on the DP World Tour after resolving outstanding fines accumulated since 2024, which total approximately $3 million (£2.21m).
Mickelson’s situation starkly underscores the intersection of personal challenges and professional obligations, a reminder that even in the world of elite sport, familial priorities can reshape careers.
