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Phil Mickelson Skips Open at Birkdale Amid Family Health Issue

2026-07-10 · Phil Mickelson · Player Focus

Phil Mickelson Skips Open at Birkdale Amid Family Health Issue

Phil Mickelson withdrew from the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on June 12, 2026, citing an undisclosed family health issue involving his wife, Amy. The six-time major champion’s absence adds his name to a roster of eight high-profile players missing the tournament.

Why did Mickelson pull out?

Mickelson’s decision stems from a personal circumstance that has kept him off the course for most of the season. He entered only one competitive event in 2026-a LIV Golf tournament in South Africa-before stepping away from the year’s three other majors. According to Today’s Golfer, this marks the first time since 1990 that he has missed all four majors in a single season.

How does this reshape the Open field?

The Open now lacks several marquee names, including Tiger Woods, who also failed to submit an entry by the deadline. Woods’ last competitive round was at the 2024 Open, and he has been dealing with legal and health issues since a March 27, 2026 DUI-related crash in Florida. Their combined absence opens opportunities for lesser-known players to contend for the Claret Jug.

What other top golfers are missing?

Sergio García fell short in Final Qualifying at West Lancashire Golf Club, marking his third miss in four years. Zach Johnson declined his 2015 Open exemption to focus on senior majors, citing a packed schedule on the PGA Tour Champions. Will Zalatoris remains sidelined with an injury that has kept him out since April 2026. Each of these withdrawals reshapes the competitive landscape and could affect world ranking points.

What does this mean for Mickelson’s career?

At 58, Mickelson’s limited schedule reflects a shift from full-time competition to selective appearances. The family health matter, combined with fresh allegations of inappropriate behavior at a San Diego-area course, adds complexity to his public profile. While he remains a fixture in golf headlines, his reduced playing time suggests a focus on personal matters over tournament pursuits.

What’s next for the Open?

The championship will proceed with a field that now leans heavily on emerging talent and seasoned veterans who have chosen to compete. Organizers hope the absence of big-name stars won’t diminish fan interest, emphasizing the historic links and challenging links-style layout of Royal Birkdale. As the first round approaches on June 15, 2026, attention will turn to who can seize the moment in a tournament missing several of its usual headline makers.

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