Phil Mickelson's Wife, Mother Were Both Previously Diagnosed With Cancer

Exactly a week before the start of the Masters, Phil Mickelson announced he wouldn't play the tournament he's won three times in the past.

“Unfortunately, I will not play in the Masters Tournament next week and will be out for an extended period of time as my family continues to navigate a personal health mater,” Mickelson said in a post on social media.

“I have great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it is definitely the most special week of the year. I wish everyone the best of luck and will be watching.”

Mickelson's Wife, Mother Were Both Previously Diagnosed With Cancer

The personal health matter the Mickelson family is currently dealing with remains unclear.

His wife, Amy, famously battled cancer when she was diagnosed in May 2009. Just two months later, Mickelson's mother, Mary, was also diagnosed with breast cancer, though the prognosis for both was very positive and both went on to beat the disease.

Nearly one year after his wife was diagnosed, Mickelson won the 2010 Masters for the third and final time and offered a heartfelt message for his longtime companion.

“I really want to recognize my family,” Mickelson said after the win. “My wife, we have been through a lot this year and it really means a lot to share this joy together … This has been such an incredible week, an emotional week; to cap it off like this, I can’t put into words, but it’s something we’ll share the rest of our lives.”

“I’ll cherish every moment of this week,” Mickelson said. “It has been very special.”

Mickelson and his wife married in 1996 and share three children together, Evan, Sophia and Amanda.

Related: When Was The Last Time Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson Both Didn't Play the Masters?