Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the 2026 Open Championship, scheduled for July 16-19 at Royal Liverpool, following allegations that he sent lewd pictures to a woman. The news was confirmed by the R&A on June 26, 2026.
According to reports, the allegations involve a woman who claims Mickelson sent inappropriate images. Mickelson, 56, has not publicly commented on the specific claims but issued a statement through his representatives saying he is stepping away to focus on his family and legal matters.
This is not the first controversy for the six-time major champion. In 2022, he took a sabbatical from golf after comments about the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league. He later joined LIV Golf in 2023.
The R&A stated that Mickelson's withdrawal is voluntary and that they respect his decision. No further details about the allegations have been released, and no charges have been filed as of June 27, 2026.
