Mickelson & Woods Skip Masters: Next Gen Steps Up

It's April 2nd. This is Entertainment and Celebrity News today, powered by AI, your

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Phil Nicholson and Tiger Woods are both sitting out the 2026 Masters Tournament next week

at Augusta National. The 55-year-old Nicholson, a three-time champ there, announced his withdrawal

Thursday due to a family health issue involving his wife of nearly 30 years. Woods, the five-time

winner, also pulled out two days earlier to focus on his well-being after a DUI arrest

and car crash last month. Nicholson first hinted at this back in February when he skipped

the opening two events of the LIV Golf League season for the same family matter. He shared

the news on social media, saying he'll be sidelined for an extended stretch, but holds

the Masters in high regard. Fans and golf insiders are buzzing about the double absence, marking

the first time since 1994 that these two legends miss the season's first major together.

Augusta National's chairman voiced full support for Woods, noting his spirit will still

linger on the course even if he's not there in person. Both golfers emphasize recovery

in their statements, Nicholson plans to wash from afar and root for the field while Woods

committed to treatment for, a stronger comeback on and off the course. With these icons on

the sidelines, all eyes shift to the next generation stepping up at Augusta from April 9th

to 11th.