Phil Mickelson won’t compete in 2022 Masters golf tournament for first time in nearly 30 years

Phil Mickelson is not going to be competing within the 2022 Masters subsequent month at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership, marking the primary time he will probably be absent from the sphere in practically 30 years.

Mickelson, 51, a three-time Masters champion, was faraway from the listing of opponents this 12 months on the match web site. He had been listed as an lively participant till Monday when his identify was included amongst previous champions who will not be taking part in in Augusta, Georgia. 

Sports activities Illustrated’s Bob Harig first broke the information, and a number of stories confirmed that “Lefty” will not be collaborating. 

Mickelson has been on the heart of controversy after he reportedly criticized the PGA Tour and backed a proposed golf league being financed by Saudi Arabians. Mickelson described the Saudis as “scary” however famous he may look previous their historical past of human rights abuses if it meant an opportunity to vary the PGA Tour.

He made the feedback in an interview with creator Alan Shipnuck, whose guide, “Phil: The Rip-Roaring (and Unauthorized!) Biography of Golf’s Most Colourful Famous person” is scheduled for a Could launch. The Hearth Pit Collective printed Mickelson’s feedback final month. 

Mickelson later apologized and introduced he would be taking a leave from the game. He claimed his feedback have been off the document and weren’t meant to be shared publicly. 

Phil Mickelson of the USA is offered the inexperienced jacket by 2003 Masters champion Mike Weir of Canada after the ultimate spherical of the Masters on the Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership on April 11, 2004, in Augusta, Georgia.
((Picture by David Cannon/Getty Photos))

“There may be the issue of off document feedback being share out of context and with out my consent,” Mickelson stated in a February assertion. “However the greater concern is that I used phrases I sincerely remorse that don’t replicate my true emotions or intentions.”

Mickelson acknowledged his “reckless” feedback however stated he by no means meant to harm anybody. 

PHIL MICKELSON MAKES STARTLING COMMENTS ABOUT SAUDI GOLF LEAGUE: REPORT

“The previous 10 years I’ve felt the strain and stress slowly affecting me at a deeper stage,” Mickelson added. “I do know I’ve not been my finest and desperately want a while away to prioritize those I really like most and work on being the person I wish to be.”

Mickelson hasn’t performed because the Saudi Worldwide in early February following his hiatus from the game. He skipped the Gamers Championship in Ponte Vedra Seaside, Florida, earlier this month. 

Mickelson has made 29 begins on the Masters, and will probably be his first time not competing within the match since 1994. He beforehand gained the Masters in 2004, 2006 and 2010. 

Tiger Woods continues to be listed as a participant within the match after he was injured in a February automobile crash final 12 months. That might change as golfers have till match week to resolve if they’re taking part in, Sports activities Illustrated reported. 

Tiger Woods tees off on the second gap in the course of the second spherical of the PNC Championship golf match Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in Orlando, Fla.
(AP Picture/Scott Audette)

The occasion is scheduled to start on April 7. Hideki Matsuyama is the defending champion.