Mickelson’s Rust-Plagued Return Ahead of Masters Push
Phil Mickelson made his long-awaited return to the golf course this past Thursday, but it was a decidedly rusty comeback for the American legend as he gears up for a crucial appearance at The Masters. Competing in his first professional event since last August, Mickelson carded a four-over par round of 75 at LIV Golf’s South Africa event held at Steyn City. This marks his first competitive action since participating in the season finale of the Saudi-backed tour.
While the scoreline included two birdies, it was unfortunately marred by a costly double-bogey and a triple-bogey. Despite the mixed performance, the outing provided Mickelson with much-needed time on the course, a vital step as he aims to regain his competitive edge. However, he’ll need to significantly elevate his game if he harbours ambitions of contending at Augusta National.
Mickelson had initially announced in February that he would be sitting out the first two LIV Golf events of the year due to a “family health matter” that required his and his wife Amy’s presence. What began as a planned absence for two tournaments soon stretched to four, leaving many concerned about the seasoned golfer’s return. His comeback was finally confirmed earlier this week, bringing a sense of relief to his fans.
The six-time Major winner, now 55 years old, has opted not to delve into the specifics of what kept him away from the sport for an extended period. However, prior to his tee-off this week, Mickelson shared a heartfelt message on social media, expressing his eagerness to be back.
“I’ve really missed seeing everyone and competing,” Mickelson stated upon his arrival in South Africa. “I’m so excited to be back with the guys this week.”
The timing of Mickelson’s return is particularly significant, with the first round of The Masters scheduled to commence in less than a month, on Thursday, April 9. This year will mark Mickelson’s 34th appearance at the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, a venue where he has achieved remarkable success, clinching the coveted Green Jacket on three separate occasions in 2004, 2006, and 2010. The LIV Golf event in South Africa serves as the final tournament before the year’s first major championship.
Mickelson endured a challenging major championship season in 2025, failing to make the cut in three of the four majors, including at Augusta. His performance at The Open Championship, held at Royal Portrush, saw him finish tied for 56th. In his final six LIV Golf events of 2025, his best finish was a tie for 23rd, indicating a dip in his usual high standards.
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy is set to arrive at Augusta as the defending champion, having completed the career Grand Slam with his victory at The Masters in 2025. McIlroy’s triumph made him just the sixth player in history to achieve this prestigious feat, a milestone that Mickelson has been tantalisingly close to achieving for many years.
The one major championship that has famously eluded Mickelson is the US Open. He has come agonizingly close to securing this title on six occasions, with his most recent runner-up finish occurring in 2013.
Mickelson’s prolonged absence from LIV Golf also presented a challenge for the Saudi-backed tour. The departures of high-profile players like Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed, who have rejoined the PGA Tour (with Reed navigating his return via a year on the DP World Tour), have added to the tour’s need for its star players to be consistently competing. The LIV Golf circuit is now banking on Mickelson rediscovering his formidable form swiftly to bolster their ranks and maintain their competitive presence.
