The PGA Championship is set to commence without the iconic presence of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, marking the second consecutive major of 2026 where these celebrated figures will be absent. Woods is currently undergoing a private treatment program in Switzerland following a DUI arrest, and his participation in the U.S. Open in June is also highly unlikely. Mickelson's absence stems from a personal family health issue that has kept him from most LIV Golf events this year and the Masters. Their withdrawals have paved the way for other notable players, including Max Homa and Dustin Johnson, to secure their places in the tournament, bringing new dynamics to the championship field.
Max Homa's inclusion as the first alternate follows Phil Mickelson's formal withdrawal. Homa's performance in 2025 was modest, but his improved play in the current year, highlighted by a strong finish at the Masters, underscores his readiness for this major event. Meanwhile, Dustin Johnson, a two-time major champion, has been granted a special invitation, allowing him to extend his impressive streak of consecutive major appearances. Their participation, alongside fifteen past PGA champions and a cohort of teaching professionals, ensures a diverse and competitive field, promising an exciting tournament.
Notable Absences and New Entries at the PGA Championship
The PGA Championship is proceeding without two of golf's most recognized figures, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape. Tiger Woods is currently in a private treatment program in Switzerland, following an arrest on suspicion of DUI in March. This ongoing situation has led to his absence from major tournaments, including the Masters and the upcoming U.S. Open. Concurrently, Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from the championship due to a private family health matter, which has also limited his participation in other major events and LIV Golf tournaments throughout the year. Their absence means that golf fans will witness a major championship without two legends who have significantly shaped the sport for decades, opening opportunities for other talented players to make their mark.
With the departure of these golfing icons, new opportunities have emerged for players like Max Homa and Dustin Johnson. Max Homa, initially an alternate, gained entry after Mickelson's official withdrawal. Homa's recent performance has shown an upward trend, including a commendable tie for ninth at the Masters, indicating his readiness for the challenges of a major championship. Dustin Johnson, a distinguished two-time major winner, received a special invitation from the PGA of America, allowing him to maintain his impressive record of consecutive major appearances. His participation, despite a challenging 2025 season, is a testament to his enduring talent and the respect he commands in the golf community. The field will also feature fifteen former PGA champions and a selection of PGA of America teaching professionals, ensuring a rich mix of experience and rising talent at Aronimink Golf Club.
The Dynamic Field: Homa's Rise and Johnson's Return
The 2026 PGA Championship field showcases a blend of established talent and emerging stars, with Max Homa and Dustin Johnson highlighting the dynamic composition. Homa's journey into the championship as the first alternate is a reflection of his recent resurgence in form. After a less-than-stellar 2025 season, his improved performance this year, particularly his strong showing at the Masters, underscores his potential to compete at the highest level. His inclusion is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and consistent play, offering him a significant platform to demonstrate his capabilities on a major stage. The tournament presents a crucial opportunity for Homa to solidify his standing among the elite golfers.
Dustin Johnson's presence in the PGA Championship, secured via a special invitation, further enriches the field. As a two-time major champion, Johnson brings a wealth of experience and a formidable competitive spirit to Aronimink Golf Club. Despite his recent engagements with LIV Golf, which have presented their own set of challenges, Johnson's commitment to participating in major championships remains steadfast. His upcoming 69th consecutive major appearance for which he is eligible speaks volumes about his dedication to the sport. Johnson's gratitude for the invitation from the PGA of America emphasizes the mutual respect between the player and the organization. The event will also feature a strong contingent of fifteen past PGA champions and the traditional group of 20 PGA of America teaching professionals, ensuring a competitive and compelling championship. The final spots are reserved for winners of this week's Truist Championship and Myrtle Beach Classic, guaranteeing that the field remains open to last-minute qualifiers, further enhancing the excitement and unpredictability of the tournament.
