It's Official: Mickelson Won't Play This Week

Phil Mickelson confirmed to Golf World while in Chicago today for a corporate outing that he's heading home to California and will not play in the BMW Championship at Cog Hill this week.

Later, Mickelson released the following statement:

(SCOTTSDALE, AZ) Sept. 4, 2007--One day after winning the Deutsche Bank Championship and taking the lead in the FedEx Cup points standings, Phil Mickelson has withdrawn from this week's BMW Championship at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club in Lemont, Ill.

"This decision was not an easy one to make," said Mickelson, "and in no way is meant as disrespectful to the tour or 'sending a message' to anyone. I've talked for weeks about needing to find a balance between my game, my business affairs and my family, and now is the time for me to take some time off."

Mickelson has played four events in the last 30 days and has steadily improved his performance on his way back from a debilitating mid-season wrist injury. Just prior to the Deutsche Bank win he shared seventh place at The Barclays. Only the next four players on the FedEx Cup points list--Steve Stricker, Tiger Woods, K.J. Choi and Rory Sabbatini--can possibly overtake Mickelson this week.

"I'm really looking forward to returning to the Tour Championship next week in Atlanta with the momentum I've been building and, hopefully, winning the first FedEx Cup," said Mickelson.