Phil Mickelson gave LIV Golf a much-needed lift in what has been a rocky off-season for the league, with HyFlyers picking up Michael La Sasso for 2026.
There is bound to be plenty of attention on LIV Golf as the 2026 season approaches, especially after the departures of Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed.
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LIV would certainly benefit if Mickelson managed to turn back the clock and make a run, especially after a couple of strong performances in 2025.
The big question is when the 55-year-old will actually get going this year.
Phil Mickelson will not play in the first two LIV Golf events of the season
Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images
Mickelson has posted on social media that he will be missing the opening two events of the season because of a family health issue.
He did not say whether he will return in time for Hong Kong, but did confirm that Ollie Schniederjans will take his place in Riyadh and Adelaide.
The main thing, though, is hoping everything turns out well with his family. Golf can wait.
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Mickelson still has something to offer. He finished third in Hong Kong last year and was also in contention during the final day in Miami, eventually finishing sixth at Doral.
Why Phil Mickelson’s absence is felt even more
Mickelson does not get enough credit for what he is still able to do at his age. Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau had not even been born when he won his first PGA Tour event.
He only won his last major a few years ago, in 2021.
‘Lefty’ is likely to be hoping La Sasso will impress in his absence. The 21-year-old prospect is the player to watch this season after his winter move to LIV.
And hopefully it will not be long before Mickelson is back out there.
