Mickelson & Woods Skip Masters: Next Gen Steps Up

0:00It's April 2nd. This is Entertainment and Celebrity News today, powered by AI, your front row to the latest buzz. I'm Cory with the story. 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

1:04linger 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.