Phil Mickelson replacement confirmed as former PGA Tour pro joins HyFlyers GC

Ollie Schniederjans has been confirmed as Phil Mickelson’s replacement at HyFlyers GC ahead of LIV Golf Riyadh, marking the second consecutive year the American has stepped in for the six-time major champion at the season-opening event.

Currently one of the top-ranked players on The International Series, Schniederjans, 32, will once again make his LIV Golf appearance under the lights in Saudi Arabia as the 2026 season gets underway on Thursday.

The talented American is a former number one ranked amateur golfer in the world. He was also a three-time NCAA All-American at Georgia Tech. 

Mickelson last week confirmed his WD from the first couple of LIV Golf events of the season due to a family health matter. Lefty will sit out this coming week’s season opener in Riyadh, as well as LIV Golf Adelaide from 12–15 February, as he remains at home to support his family.

“The opportunity to play LIV Golf Riyadh is incredible and I always have a great time competing with the HyFlyers,” said Schniederjans. 

“Playing on a team means a lot to me and I want to play great for myself, but also for Phil and the guys.

“Riyadh is a very exciting week being the season opener, and playing under the lights makes it a really cool experience. I loved it last year, even though I didn’t play as well as I wanted to. I definitely feel more prepared this time around.”

Former PGA Tour pro Schniederjans arrives with proven pedigree after claiming the 2025 International Series India presented by DLF, where he sealed a four-shot victory over Crushers GC captain and two-time US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau.

Despite that breakthrough, his 2025 campaign proved frustrating at times. 

Strong performances were not quite enough to earn a full-time LIV Golf card via the Rankings pathway, before another narrow miss at LIV Golf Promotions.

Those near misses, however, have only sharpened his focus.

“I’ve always been super motivated to compete with the best players in the world,” he said.

“I’m not shy about saying I’m gunning for a full spot on LIV and I want to be an asset to the league.

“I believe in the future of LIV Golf and the global game. I know I’ve got a lot to prove, and I’m working as hard and as smart as I can to get where I want to be.”

Schniederjans also revealed a renewed approach over the offseason, focusing on simplifying his game and building consistency as he looks to contend throughout The International Series season and force his way back into the LIV Golf picture.

“I’ve come into this season healthy, prepared and in a much more consistent place,” he added. “I’m hoping to keep showing what I can do.”