As the 2025 PGA Championship prepares to tee off at Quail Hollow in Charlotte, North Carolina, one unexpected storyline is drawing more attention than the competition itself—Phil Mickelson’s sudden and unexplained absence. The 54-year-old, a two-time PGA Champion, was expected to make his 32nd appearance at the major, but with the tournament about to begin, he has yet to be seen at the venue.
Despite being listed among the participants, Mickelson has not made a public appearance on the course. A post from a Mickelson fan-tracking account highlighted the issue, stating that he hadn’t shown up at the site so far this week. The silence has left fans and analysts wondering whether this is part of a calculated plan—or a sign of something deeper.
Reactions across social media have ranged from hopeful to critical. Some believe this could be a classic Mickelson mind game, suggesting a bold weekend performance might be in store. Others were less forgiving, labeling the lack of visibility as careless and unprofessional, especially for someone with his experience and legacy.
Later updates suggested that Mickelson might have been around the course in recent days but chose not to participate in any official practice rounds. This only intensified the speculation. Some fans voiced concern about a possible illness or personal issue, while others questioned his commitment and motivation, pointing to his limited appearances at tournaments this year.
Mickelson hasn’t missed a PGA Championship since 2022, aside from a voluntary hiatus. His career has been defined by surprise moments, none bigger than his shocking 2021 win at Kiawah Island. Now, just hours from the start of another major, his absence has become the biggest mystery at Quail Hollow.
Whether he’s planning a dramatic entrance or slowly fading from the spotlight, Mickelson has once again managed to make himself the center of the conversation—without hitting a single shot.