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Phil Mickelson Facing Criticism For Bizarre Masters Claim

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Apr 11, 2026 3:31 PM ET

Phil Mickelson isn't competing at the Masters this year, and yet, he managed to stir up quite the debate on social media.

Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, had an issue with the way the field was approaching the 13th and 15th holes on Friday. He also declared that there wasn't a single eagle putt opportunity during the second round.

"Watching @TheMasters and seeing so few players long enough to go for 13 &15 now has taken away so much excitement and intrigue to the back nine. Another example of how longer isn’t always better," Mickelson wrote. "Not a single eagle putt on 13. Crazy."

It didn't take long for someone to call out Mickelson for his false statistic.

"Jake Knapp, Kristoffer Reitan, Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, Max Greyserman, Sami Valimaki, and Keegan Bradley all putted for eagle today," one person pointed out.

Aug 23, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Phil Mickelson of HyFlyers GC walks on the first green during the semifinals of the LIV Golf Michigan Team Championship at The Cardinal at Saint John's Resort. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images© Aaron Doster-Imagn Images.

Instead of admitting that he was wrong, Mickelson doubled down and replied: "6 of 90. Like I said 'so few.'"

Either Mickelson was trolling fans on social media or he genuinely forgot to edit his initial post.

"Does Phil know the things you type on Twitter are not like real-life conversation where the words disappear after you speak them," one fan said.

"First golfer with CTE," another fan commented.

6 of 90. Like I said “so few”
— Phil Mickelson (@PhilMickelson) April 11, 2026

Why isn't Phil Mickelson at the Masters?

Mickelson announced last week that he'd miss this year's tournament at Augusta National due to a family-related issue. He didn't provide any other details though.

“Unfortunately, I will not play in the Masters Tournament next week and will be out for an extended period of time as my family continues to navigate a personal health matter,” Mickelson said in a statement. “I have great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it is definitely the most special week of the year. I wish everyone the best of luck and will be watching.”

Hopefully, we'll see Mickelson return to Augusta National next April.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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