Three-time champion Phil Mickelson withdraws from Masters due to family issue

"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 a social media post.

The American claimed his maiden major and Masters title in 2004, sealing victory with a birdie on the final hole to deny South Africa's Ernie Els.

He added further titles in 2006 and 2010, making him one of just eight players to have won the Masters three or more times.

Mickelson has not disclosed further details about the family health issue.

He missed the opening four LIV events of the year before returning in South Africa two weeks ago, where he finished tied for 48th in a 57-player field.

"It's just fun to be back playing," he said in South Africa.

Earlier in the week, Tiger Woods announced he would be stepping away indefinitely to undergo treatment following his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence after a February 27 crash in Florida.

As a result, the 2026 Masters will mark the first edition since 1994 without either Woods or Mickelson in the field.

The Masters tees off at Augusta National on April 9.