The 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink is shaping up to be a tournament defined by notable absences—and a few exciting additions. As was the case at the Masters last month, neither Tiger Woods nor Phil Mickelson will be teeing it up next week, marking a historic moment for the sport.
The PGA of America confirmed Tuesday that Mickelson will not participate due to a “personal health matter with his family.” The six-time major champion and two-time PGA winner has played in only one of LIV Golf's six events this season and also skipped the Masters in April. Stepping into his spot is Max Homa, who had been sitting as the first alternate. Homa, who tied for ninth at the Masters last month, brings solid form and a hungry mindset to the field.
The updated field now lists 154 names, with two spots still up for grabs—reserved for the winners of this week's PGA Tour events: the Truist Championship and the Myrtle Beach Classic. As expected, Tiger Woods' name is absent from the list. Woods is reportedly in a treatment program following his March arrest on suspicion of DUI. This marks the first time since 1994 that neither Woods nor Mickelson has played in the Masters or the PGA Championship in the same year.
On a brighter note, Dustin Johnson received a special invitation from the PGA to compete, extending his streak to 69 consecutive major championships for which he's been eligible. “I’m definitely very excited to play,” Johnson said. “The PGA of America, we’ve got a great relationship. I’ve supported them for a long time. I’m very, very thankful that they gave me an invite. And very honored.”
Rounding out the field alphabetically is Cameron Young, who is currently playing some of the best golf on the planet. Fresh off a win at the Cadillac Championship at Doral, Young has climbed to No. 3 in the world rankings, trailing only Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. With Homa now in the main draw, Sudarshan Yellamaraju becomes the first alternate after his T5 finish at the Players Championship in March. Notably, Tony Finau sits as the fifth alternate, having missed the Masters last month—his first major absence after 33 consecutive starts.
As the golf world turns its attention to Aronimink, the stage is set for a championship that blends tradition with a new generation of stars ready to make their mark.