Phil Mickelson struggles on return at LIV Golf South Africa as Masters 2026 pressure builds quickly

Phil Mickelson is finally back on the golf course, but his return did not go the way many expected. The American golfer played his first event in months at the LIV Golf South Africa tournament at Steyn City on Thursday.

He finished the round with a score of four over par 75. It was his first competitive appearance since August last year. While fans were happy to see him back, the performance showed he still needs time to find his rhythm again. His return also comes after a long and quiet break from the sport. Back in February, Mickelson had shared that he would miss the first two LIV Golf events of 2026 due to a family health matter involving his wife, Amy Mickelson.

However, the break lasted longer than expected, stretching to four missed events. This made many fans curious and concerned, though he chose not to share more details.

Phil Mickelson fights rust after return while preparing for The Masters following emotional absence

Now that he is back, Mickelson is trying to get ready quickly for The Masters, which begins on April 9. Time is short, and this LIV event is his final chance to prepare. His round in South Africa showed mixed moments. He managed two birdies, but there were also costly mistakes, including a double bogey and even a triple bogey.

That made it a tough day overall, but it also gave him some much-needed match practice.Before the event, Mickelson shared how much he missed the game. He said, “I’ve really missed seeing everyone and competing. I’m so excited to be back with the guys this week.”That short message showed how important this return is for him, both personally and professionally.Looking ahead, Mickelson will be making his 34th appearance at Augusta.

It is a place where he has enjoyed great success in the past, winning The Masters three times in 2004, 2006, and 2010. Still, recent years have not been easy. In 2025, he missed the cut in three out of four major tournaments, including at Augusta. His best result at The Open Championship was tied for 56th at Royal Portrush. There is also pressure around the current golf scene. Rory McIlroy enters The Masters as the defending champion after winning in 2025 and completing his career Grand Slam. Mickelson, on the other hand, is still chasing the one major that has always slipped away from him, the US Open, where he has finished second six times. For now, all eyes are on how quickly Mickelson can improve. His return has started, but the real test is still ahead.