Phil Mickelsons absence at PGA Championship | Golf News

Two-time PGA Champion Phil Mickelson has pulled out of the sphere due to a personal health matter affecting his household. Mickelson has been absent from six LIV Golf occasions during the 2026 season while captaining HyFlyers GC on the Saudi-backed circuit, though the six-time major champion’s future stays unsure after the PIF withdrew funding following the 2026 season.

The 55-year-old also skipped the 2026 Masters match alongside Tiger Woods, and both are absent from the PGA Championship. Woods is sidelined after being arrested for a DUI close to his Florida residence.

Jake Knapp also withdrew due to a thumb sprain injury, enabling Tom Hoge to enter the sphere. Hoge will compete against some of the world’s best, including Scottie Scheffler and Jordan Spieth — with those two notably pursuing membership in the profession grand slam membership.

“It would be amazing, right, because it’s just a very, very short list in history,” said Spieth forward of the match, where he is making his 14th look.

“So, you know, at the same time winning the PGA itself, you get to then play in the PGA for however long they allow you to. I don’t actually know the rules on the PGA. Is it 60? Forever? Or till you’re possibly asked that maybe we celebrate this as your — the same way Augusta does.

“Just successful this match in normal could be very particular. The Ryder Cup’s been such an important half of my life, and The PGA of America, having my teacher that I’ve been with for just about my entire profession be a PGA of America skilled, so there’s many causes.”

The 13-time PGA Tour winner and longtime fan favorite Spieth would join an exclusive group of just six other players should he claim victory.

“Just exit and prepare for the first gap,” said Spieth. “Get a good recreation plan in and assault it the best way it wants to be attacked.

“My game has been getting better and better. It’s plenty good to have a chance to win. It’s about working my way into contention. I was able to do that a couple weeks ago. Being in the last couple groups this weekend the first time this season. Glad I was there and hopefully I can do that week and do better.”