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Phil Mickelson isn't playing in the 2026 Masters, but that doesn't mean he's not watching.
The three-time Masters champ, who withdrew ahead of the tournament citing a family health issue, took to X to offer his take on a recent course change to Augusta National.
"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."
Augusta National lengthened the iconic par 5 from 510 yards to 545 yards ahead of the 2023 Masters and it made an immediate difference.
"Not a single eagle putt on 13. Crazy," Mickelson added.
Historically, 13 plays as Augusta National's second-easiest course, only behind the par-5 second. And funny enough, Mickelson has the best record of anyone on Amen Corner's famed par 5.
MORE FROM GOLF DIGEST @ THE MASTERS
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The three-time Masters champ, who withdrew ahead of the tournament citing a family health issue, took to X to offer his take on a recent course change to Augusta National.
"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."
Augusta National lengthened the iconic par 5 from 510 yards to 545 yards ahead of the 2023 Masters and it made an immediate difference.
"Not a single eagle putt on 13. Crazy," Mickelson added.
Historically, 13 plays as Augusta National's second-easiest course, only behind the par-5 second. And funny enough, Mickelson has the best record of anyone on Amen Corner's famed par 5.
MORE FROM GOLF DIGEST @ THE MASTERS
Masters 101: Answering all your frequently asked questions
How to watch the 2026 Masters
Power Rankings: Every player in the Masters field, ranked
Tee times for Round 1 and Round 2
50 defining Masters Moments, ranked
The most memorable Rules issues in Masters history
Every course change ever made at Augusta National
A brief history of Masters prize money payouts
15 people who ended up in the Masters penalty box
The Champions Dinner Tell-All, from those inside the room
Continue reading...
