Built in 1912 for the soldiers at Camp Logan, Memorial Park Golf Course wasn’t much more than a few fairways and sand greens. This rugged track, over some serious golfing, has grown into a place where champions are made. After wrapping up the Florida Swing with the Valspar Championship, PGA is headed to the Memorial Park Golf Course with $9,500,000 for the Texas Children’s Houston Open. Now, this tournament might not be one of the PGA Tour’s flagship events, but it’s still attracting some big-name talent – and that’s likely because it’s just a stone’s throw away from the first Major of the year, The Masters.

The field at Memorial Park Golf Course is looking stacked with players who’ve made a serious impact on the game. We’re talking multiple PGA Tour winners, major champions, and even some current and former World No.1s. It’s shaping up to be an exciting tournament! Last year, two Houston Open champions, Carlos Ortiz and Jason Kokrak missed the event upon joining LIV. Patrick Cantlay too wasn’t there. This year, different golfers have different reasons. Let’s take a look at who and what they are. Here are the top 5 players missing from the field:

1. Xander Schauffele

Xander Schauffele, the World No. 3, is still searching for his groove after a rib injury kept him out of action for nearly two months. His recent performances at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players left much to be desired, with finishes outside the top 40. However, a strong showing at the Valspar Championship, where he’s currently tied for seventh, suggests he’s turning a corner. Notably, Schauffele has a history of skipping this event, having also opted out of the 2024 Children’s Houston Open. As Schauffele focuses on regaining his form, it’s no surprise that he’s once again choosing to bypass the Children’s Houston Open, instead prioritizing his game and building momentum for the season ahead.

2. Collin Morikawa

“I don’t owe anyone anything. No offense to you guys, but for me in the moment, I didn’t want to be around anyone. Like, I didn’t want to talk to anyone. I didn’t need any ‘sorries.’ You’re just pissed.” These candid words from two-time major champion Collin Morikawa offer a glimpse into the emotional turmoil that can follow a tough loss. Morikawa, one of the top players missing from the field this week, knows a thing or two about heartbreak on the course. His recent defeat at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where Russell Henley‘s chip-in eagle led to a one-stroke loss, was a tough pill to swallow. Morikawa’s decision to skip the post-game media session sparked some debate, but as he later explained, sometimes athletes just need space to process their emotions.

3. Viktor Hovland

Viktor Hovland, a six-time PGA Tour winner, has been working to reclaim his form after a dismal 2024 season. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, including a solo third at the PGA Championship, Hovland’s game has been inconsistent. Recently reconnecting with coach Grant Waite, Hovland is making tweaks to his game, and the early signs are promising. His strong performance at the Valspar Championship, where he’s tied for third, indicates that he’s on the right track.

As Hovland continues to rebuild his game, it’s likely that he’s focusing on his practice and preparation rather than competing for now.

4. Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth, a seasoned contender at Augusta National, has been focusing on fine-tuning his game ahead of the Masters. As part of his preparations, Spieth has opted to skip the Children’s Houston Open, choosing to conserve his energy and concentrate on his quest for a second Green Jacket. “I don’t really care how I’m playing,” Spieth said, reflecting on his confidence in competing at Augusta National, regardless of his form. With his sights set on the year’s first Major, Spieth is likely using this time to work on his game and build momentum, rather than competing in a non-major event.

5. Justin Thomas

Justin Thomas is a puzzle in the golf world – he’s almost great, but his game is unpredictable. He’s had some amazing moments, but also some tough times. After a tough tournament at the Valspar Championship, Thomas is probably taking some time to rest and reset. So, it’s no surprise that he’s skipping the Children’s Houston Open to focus on improving his game. It’s been a while since Thomas last won a tournament (back in 2022), and it’s clear he’s prioritizing getting better over competing in every event.

Many top golfers, including Xander Schauffele, Viktor Hovland, Jordan Spieth, and Collin Morikawa, are also missing from the Children’s Houston Open. Seems like many, instead of burning the candle at both ends, are pacing themselves – resting up and fine-tuning their game so they can come out swinging when the Masters roll. What do you think about these top players skipping the event? Let us know in the comment section below!