Ever since joining LIV Golf, Phil Mickelson has played a key role in HyFlyers GC's success, but he won't be in Saudi Arabia when LIV Golf opens its 2026 season this week. 

The HyFlyers captain announced on February 1 that he and his wife, Amy, must remain stateside to address a family health issue. Mickelson kept specifics private but made his priorities clear: golf takes a backseat for now.

"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. I can't wait to compete again and look forward to rejoining as soon as possible." Mickelson wrote on X.

However, Mickelson also ensured that his team doesn't face the consequences of his absence in terms of numbers, especially since LIV Golf's 2026 season begins on February 4 at the Riyadh Golf Club.

He also stated, "Ollie Schniederjans will step in for me in Riyadh as I root on HighFlyers GC from afar."

However, Mickelson's words about missing "two" events and the schedule for LIV Golf's second event in Adelaide indicate that Schniederjans will have to replace him in it, too. It will begin on February 12 and conclude on the 15th.

But while Mickelson did not provide a timeline for his return, a look at the previous season suggests he might return with renewed zeal.

Phil Mickelson’s 2025 comeback offers a glimpse into what the future may hold

Mickelson's announcement made 2026 the second consecutive season in which he had to take a timeout. However, the reasons behind his hiatus were different.

While this time it's a family emergency, Mickelson also stepped away from the first LIV Golf event of 2025, but due to a shoulder injury. The 55-year-old returned to HyFlyers GC after missing the first two events of 2025, just like he is set to miss this year.

However, Mickelson forged a strong comeback after his hiatus. He finished 24th in the individual standings and secured a Lock Zone spot for the first time.

That guaranteed his spot for this year after three seasons of being close to relegation. He also achieved three top-10 finishes, including a notable third-place finish in Hong Kong, the first time he climbed the podium in LIV.

With his 2025 return still fresh in memory, many might be wondering whether his 2026 comeback will follow a similar path. Or do you think this pause signals something different this time around?

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Written by

Sneha Abraham

Edited by

Souvik Roy