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Phil Mickelson will miss the first two LIV Golf events of the year to deal with a "personal family matter." The six-time major winner, 55, is one of the biggest stars still competing on the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund backed rebel tour.

It's been a difficult start to 2026 for the controversial golf circuit, as Brooks Koepka chose to terminate his contract with the series. Patrick Reed also followed the five-time major winner out of the tour, declining a new deal. In total, ten players have departed the tour ahead of its fourth season, which begins with LIV Golf Riyadh on February 4th. While the likes of Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm ars still competing, Mickelson will be a notable absentee.

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In a statement uploaded to social media, 'Leftie' said: "I will not be able to participate in the first two LIV events as Amy (Mickelson's wife) and I need to be present for a family health matter.

"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."

As well as missing the season opener in Riyadh, he will also be absent for LIV Golf Adelaide, which tees off on February 12. All eyes will be on Schniederjans for the team event, when he leads Mickelson's HyFlyers GC, which also includes Cameron Tringale, Brendan Steele and new signing Michael LaSasso.

Mickelson recently commented on Koepka's decision to walk away from LIV, despite signing a purported $100m (£72.7m) deal when he defected in 2022. He returned to the PGA Tour after qualifying for the tour's 'Returning Member Porgramme'.

When asked about the Floridian's return, Mickelson said: "I think we're all friends. I consider Brooks a friend, and whatever he thinks is best for he and his family, I fully support.

"Like I say, Brooks is a friend of mine, and if it's the best thing for him and his family and he feels it's the best, I fully support it."

If Mickelson is able to sort out his family matter, he could be available to compete at LIV Golf Hong Kong. The third event of the series takes place on March 5.