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AUGUST, Ga. — Phil Mickelson, who’s not playing in this Masters as he tends to a family health matter, took to his X account on Friday night to tweak Augusta for making Nos. 13 and 15 more difficult, taking away from the drama of eagles and birdies.
His message: “Watching @TheMasters and seeing so few players long enough to go for 13 & 15 now has taken away so much excitement and intrigue to the back nine. Another example of how longer isn’t always better.”
Both holes have been lengthened, with 13 stretched from 510 yards to 545 yards in 2023, and 15 lengthened by 30 yards with the tee box pushed 20 yards to the left from 2025.
Phil Mickelson of Hyflyers GC plays his shot from the fifth tee during Day 2 of LIV Golf South Africa at The Club at Steyn City on March 20, 2026 in Johannesburg. Getty ImagesThere were four eagles made on 13 on Thursday and one on 15. On Friday, there was only one on each.
“Well, this year 13 is trickier, for sure,’’ Adam Scott said.
Mickelson did change his tune a bit on Saturday when he tweeted this with some clapping emojis: “A day later everyone is going for 13 with a mid iron. I wonder if they moved the tee up to the front or the warm weather is making a difference. Either way it’s much more exciting today.
“I miss being there, but it’s such a fun tournament to watch.”
English (US)