Phil Mickelson won't compete in 2022 Masters golf tournament for first time in nearly 30 years

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Phil Mickelson will not be competing in the 2022 Masters next month at Augusta National Golf Club, marking the first time he will be absent from the field in nearly 30 years.

Mickelson, 51, a three-time Masters champion, was removed from the list of competitors this year on the tournament website. He had been listed as an active participant until Monday when his name was included among past champions who won't be playing in Augusta, Georgia. 

Sports Illustrated's Bob Harig first broke the news, and multiple reports confirmed that "Lefty" won't be participating. 

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Phil Mickelson watches his tee shot on the 13th hole during the first round of The Players Championship golf tournament Thursday, March 14, 2019, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. ((AP Photo/Lynne Sladky))

Mickelson has been at the center of controversy after he reportedly criticized the PGA Tour and backed a proposed golf league being financed by Saudi Arabians. Mickelson described the Saudis as "scary" but noted he could look past their history of human rights abuses if it meant a chance to change the PGA Tour.

He made the comments in an interview with author Alan Shipnuck, whose book, "Phil: The Rip-Roaring (and Unauthorized!) Biography of Golf’s Most Colorful Superstar" is scheduled for a May release. The Fire Pit Collective published Mickelson's comments last month. 

Mickelson later apologized and announced he would be taking a leave from the sport. He claimed his comments were off the record and were not meant to be shared publicly. 

Phil Mickelson of the USA is presented the green jacket by 2003 Masters champion Mike Weir of Canada