SOURCE: Augusta National Officials Discouraged Phil Mickelson From Playing In The Masters

As first reported by Golfweek, Phil Mickelson’s decision not to play in the Masters this year was not just his decision. According to Golfweek’s sources, Augusta National officials either told him or strongly encouraged him not to come.

The last thing that Augusta National wants is Phil to take away from their tournament, especially since he would be getting negative attention.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Phil Mickelson (@philmickelson)

Although many people speculate that Mickelson has been suspended from the PGA TOUR, even after commissioner Jay Monahan would not comment on if he was or not, The Masters is run by Augusta National itself. This means that they have the power to allow whoever they would like to play in the event and un-invite whoever they want.

The three-time green jacket winner must be thinking about what he has done at this point. To be un-invited to the most prestigious tournament in all of golf after being a three-time past champion has to be a new low for him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Masters (@themasters)

If these reports are accurate and Augusta National did tell Mickelson he’s not allowed to come; then you’d have to imagine that he won’t even be there for the Champions Dinner.

I bet Phil wishes he could go back to that original Alan Shipnuck interview where all of his negative comments about the PGA TOUR came from and never say a word bad about the PGA TOUR or positive about the Saudi-backed golf league.

What a past couple of months for Phil. From one of the greatest to ever play the sport, to not even being allowed to play in this year’s Masters.

Cover Image Via Instagram & Instagram