Tiger Woods will not play the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, joining Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson in the high-profile absentees from golf’s oldest major. The three legends are sidelined as the field prepares to tee off on 18 July.

Who’s missing and why it matters

Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson headline the biggest names staying away from the 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale. Woods has not entered the week, ending his hopes of adding another Claret Jug to his cabinet. Mickelson and Johnson, both past Open champions, also declined invitations, leaving a marquee trio on the outside.

Royal Birkdale’s 2026 Open marks the first time in more than a decade that Woods, Mickelson and Johnson have all skipped the major. Their absences leave a gaping hole in the marquee field, with only Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler among the top-ranked players confirmed to compete.

What the field looks like without them

Without Woods, Mickelson and Johnson, the 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale leans on younger stars and European stalwarts. Rory McIlroy headlines the contenders, while Scottie Scheffler brings world No. 1 credentials. Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm and Viktor Hovland round out the pre-tournament favorites.

Royal Birkdale’s links layout suits long hitters and precise iron players. The course’s undulating fairways and deep bunkers reward aggressive play, but a firm, fast greenside can punish wayward approaches. The 2026 edition promises a stern test for anyone chasing the Claret Jug.

Why these absences sting

Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson have combined for six Open titles and 43 major top-10s. Their absence shrinks the storylines and robs fans of potential drama. Woods’ last Open start came in 2019 at Royal St George’s, where he tied for 25th. His absence this year ends any chance of a late-career major charge.

The trio’s decisions reflect scheduling priorities and physical demands. Woods, 49, has trimmed his schedule to focus on select events. Mickelson, 56, and Johnson, 51, have also scaled back, leaving the 2026 Open without three of its most recognizable champions.