As the 2026 Masters Tournament unfolds in Augusta, Georgia, the absence of Phil Mickelson is felt not only by his fans but also by the golfing community. Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, is missing this year’s event due to a family health matter. His presence at Augusta has always been a source of excitement, and his insights into the tournament have often sparked discussions among fans and players alike.
This year, the Masters has seen significant changes to its iconic course, particularly with the lengthening of holes 13 and 15. Hole No. 13, which was extended from 510 yards to 545 yards in 2023, and hole No. 15, which was lengthened by an additional 30 yards with the tee box pushed 20 yards to the left in 2025, have drawn attention from players and commentators. The modifications aimed to challenge the players further, but they have also raised questions about the overall excitement of the tournament.
On the opening day of the tournament, four eagles were made on hole No. 13, while one eagle was recorded on hole No. 15. However, as the tournament progressed, the excitement seemed to dwindle. By Friday, only one eagle was made on each of those holes, highlighting a stark contrast to the previous day’s performance. Mickelson, watching from afar, expressed his concerns about the changes via social media, stating, “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.”
His remarks resonate with many fans who feel that the thrill of the back nine has diminished. On Saturday, despite more players attempting to reach the green on hole No. 13, no eagles were recorded, further supporting Mickelson’s argument. He noted that only six of the 91 players in the field putted for eagle on hole No. 13 on Friday, a statistic that he found alarming. “Not a single eagle putt on 13. Crazy,” he tweeted, emphasizing the impact of the course changes on gameplay.
Historically, hole No. 13 has been a pivotal point in the Masters, often leading to dramatic moments and shifts in momentum. In 2025, for instance, the hole surrendered just six eagles for the entire tournament, a stark contrast to its previous reputation. Observers are now left wondering if the lengthening of these holes will continue to affect player strategy and the overall excitement of the tournament.
Mickelson’s absence from the course is palpable, as he shared his feelings about missing the Masters while still enjoying the competition from home. “I miss being at the Masters but find it fun to watch,” he remarked, a sentiment that many fans can relate to. His passion for the game and the tournament is evident, and his insights continue to spark conversations about the future of the Masters.
As the tournament progresses, golf enthusiasts and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the players and the overall excitement of the Masters. With 23 eagles recorded through the first three rounds, the question remains whether the thrill of the back nine can be restored or if the new lengths will redefine the strategies of future tournaments. For now, the golfing community eagerly awaits the outcomes of this year’s Masters, hoping for a return to the exhilarating moments that have defined the tournament for decades.
