PHIL MICKELSON will be absent from the Masters next month, for the first time since 28 YEARS.

In February, the three-time champion resigned from golf due to backlash about his participation in the Saudi Super League as well as comments he made regarding the PGA.

Mickelson (51), is listed on the Masters website as a "past champ who will not compete".

The participants' list has been updated to remove the iconic leftie - this is only possible upon request.

Mickelson, who was awarded a Green Jacket in 2006 and 2010, will be missing the Augusta showpiece, which he has featured 29 times during his career.

Since finishing T18 at Asia Tour's Saudi International in February 3-6, the American has not participated in any competition.

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A portion of an unauthorised biography that was released in October claimed that the golfer called Saudis'scary' and was willing to overlook their human right record to gain leverage on the PGA Tour.

Saudi Arabia's government denies accusations of human rights violations.

Mickelson apologized for his comments and stated that they were not on the record. He also said that he would take some time off golf. However, he has lost many sponsors since then.

Jay Monahan, chief of the PGA Tour, was asked about Mickelson's future prior to the Players Championship at March's start.

He stated that Mickleson had said he was stepping aside and that he wanted time to reflect - something that he and I will respect and honor.

"When he is ready to return to the PGA Tour we will have that conversation. It's something I look forward too.

Since Phil made his comments, I haven't spoken to Phil and since he stated that he was leaving.

"I believe the ball is in his hands. He would be most welcome to call me. It's difficult for me to discuss the various scenarios that could unfold.

He's a player who's won 45 times on PGA Tour. He has a Hall of Fame record. He has won at The Players Championship. He has inspired many people and helped to grow the Tour, his Tour.

"So, even though it's difficult to read some of these things, eventually a conversation will take place when he's ready for it, and I will also be ready for it."