LIV Golf is set to commence its fifth season in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this week, but the Saudi-backed tour will be without one of its marquee players from the outset. Phil Mickelson, the six-time Masters champion and captain of the HyFlyers team, has revealed that he will be absent for the opening events of the 2026 campaign.
Mickelson's Personal Absence
In a statement released on Sunday, Mickelson, aged 55, explained that he and his wife, Amy, need to address a family health matter, prompting his decision to skip the first two tournaments. The season opener is scheduled for February 4-6 in Riyadh, followed by an event in Adelaide, Australia, at The Grange Golf Club on February 12.
'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,' Mickelson said. 'I can't wait to compete again and look forward to rejoining my team-mates as soon as possible. In the meantime, Ollie Schniederjans will step in for me in Riyadh as I root on HyFlyers GC from afar.'
Broader Impact on LIV Golf
Mickelson's temporary departure adds to a series of challenges for the breakaway golf circuit, which has recently lost other high-profile names. Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner, announced before Christmas that he would not be returning to LIV this season, opting instead for a comeback to the PGA Tour.
The PGA Tour facilitated Koepka's return through a new 'Returning Members Program,' which allowed him to rejoin without a suspension, despite initial expectations of severe consequences. Koepka made his official return at the Farmers Insurance Open this week, marking a significant blow to LIV's roster.
Patrick Reed's Exit
Similarly, Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, confirmed his departure from LIV Golf on Wednesday, just weeks after Koepka's exit. Reed had hinted at a potential change over the weekend, noting he was out of contract with the Saudi-backed tour and offered no guarantee of re-signing in time for the 2026 season.
Unlike Koepka, Reed does not meet the criteria for the PGA Tour's 'Returning Member' program and will not be eligible for an immediate comeback. However, the PGA Tour has stated he will be permitted to play as a non-member in their events from August this year, with a full return anticipated in 2027.
Strategic Implications
The loss of Mickelson, even temporarily, alongside the permanent exits of Reed and Koepka, raises questions about LIV Golf's stability and appeal as it enters its fifth season. The tour's reliance on blockbuster names has been a key part of its strategy to compete with established circuits like the PGA Tour.
These developments come as LIV Golf prepares to kick off in Riyadh, with the absence of such prominent players potentially affecting viewership and team dynamics. The HyFlyers, in particular, will have to adapt quickly with Schniederjans stepping in for Mickelson during this period.
As the golf world watches these shifts, the ongoing rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour continues to evolve, with player movements highlighting the competitive and financial tensions within the sport.
