Phil Mickelson’s Emotional Reaction to Tiger Woods’ Heartbreaking 2025 Masters Announcement: “It Breaks My Heart”

In a moment that has left the golfing world reeling, Phil Mickelson has spoken out with raw emotion following Tiger Woods’ devastating announcement that his hopes of competing in the 2025 Masters Tournament have been dashed. The three-time Masters champion, known for his storied rivalry and evolving friendship with Woods, didn’t hold back, uttering five poignant words that captured the weight of the news: “It breaks my heart.”

Woods, a five-time Masters winner and one of the most iconic figures in sports history, had been clinging to the possibility of returning to Augusta National in April 2025, scheduled for April 10-13. Fans and fellow players alike had been eagerly awaiting his potential comeback, especially after a challenging few years marked by injuries and limited play. However, in a heartbreaking turn of events, Woods recently confirmed that ongoing physical setbacks have forced him to abandon his plans, shattering dreams of seeing the 49-year-old legend don the green jacket once more.

Mickelson, now 54 and a prominent figure in LIV Golf, was visibly moved when addressing Woods’ announcement. The two have shared decades of competition, from their fierce battles in the early 2000s to a more recent camaraderie that has warmed the hearts of fans. “Tiger’s given so much to this game,” Mickelson said, his voice heavy with sentiment. “To see him fight through everything and not be able to come back here—it breaks my heart.”

The news comes as a particular blow given Woods’ storied history at Augusta. His 1997 Masters triumph, where he won by a record 12 strokes at just 21 years old, remains one of golf’s defining moments, and his improbable 2019 victory—his fifth green jacket—reaffirmed his enduring greatness. For Mickelson, who claimed his own Masters titles in 2004, 2006, and 2010, the absence of Woods in 2025 feels like the end of an era. “We’ve pushed each other to be better,” Mickelson reflected. “Seeing him sidelined like this, it’s tough—not just for him, but for all of us who love this game.”

Woods’ withdrawal adds another layer of melancholy to what was shaping up to be a highly anticipated Masters. With Rory McIlroy still chasing his first green jacket and younger stars like J.J. Spaun emerging, the tournament will undoubtedly miss the electric presence of the man who redefined golf’s global appeal. Mickelson, who has transitioned to LIV Golf but remains a beloved figure at Augusta, hinted at the void Woods will leave. “He’s more than a player—he’s a force,” he said. “It won’t feel the same without him.”

As the golf world processes this loss, Mickelson’s five emotional words linger, a testament to the respect and admiration he holds for his longtime rival. While the 2025 Masters will crown a champion on April 13, the absence of Tiger Woods ensures that this year’s event will carry a bittersweet note—one that even a legend like Phil Mickelson can’t hide his sorrow over.