The RBC Canadian Open 2026 kicked off under the shadow of significant absences that are shaking up the tournament landscape and sparking heated discussions among fans and experts. With a total prize pool of around $9.8 million and four of the top ten golfers in the world present, expectations were high — but the absence of five of golf’s biggest stars has left a void that cannot be ignored.
Among the notable absentees is Rory McIlroy, an indispensable figure who has lifted the trophy twice on Canadian soil, in 2019 and 2022. The Northern Irishman, currently ranked number two in the world, chose not to attend the TPC Toronto this year, preferring to protect his schedule in view of the US Open at Shinnecock Hills. McIlroy secured his second Masters title at Augusta in April, becoming a consecutive two-time champion, and has since been extremely selective in his tournament appearances. Last week, during the Memorial Tournament, McIlroy even joked about the situation: “I feel almost like a part-time player,” he told reporters, emphasizing his strategic approach to the season. Despite his absence, McIlroy already has one victory on the PGA Tour and three top-10 finishes in 2026.
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Another name that needs no introduction and whose absence is keenly felt is Scottie Scheffler, the world number one and current leader of the FedExCup. Scheffler has not competed in the RBC Canadian Open since 2020 and this year has again chosen not to participate, focusing his energies on winning the US Open — the major title that is missing from his collection. The American started 2026 strongly, winning the American Express by four strokes, achieving his 20th title on the PGA Tour before turning 30, a feat matched only by legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. Scheffler finished second at the Masters, behind McIlroy, and placed 12th at the Memorial, demonstrating consistency at the highest level.
Justin Thomas, the former world number one and winner of 16 titles on the PGA Tour, has also chosen not to compete in Toronto. Thomas was last seen at the RBC Canadian Open in 2022, where he finished an impressive third with final rounds of 63 and 64 strokes. This year, after a modest 19th place at the Memorial Tournament, Thomas preferred to focus on preparing for the US Open, foregoing a final competitive tune-up in Canada. The American, currently ranked 16th, is looking to redeem himself next week after two top-10 finishes this season, including an eighth place at the Players Championship.
Cameron Young, ranked third in the world and one of the rising stars on the circuit, is another notable absentee. Young won the Players Championship in March, edging out Matt Fitzpatrick, and impressed at Augusta, where he led after three rounds before finishing tied for third place. The young American maintained his momentum at the Cadillac Championship, winning decisively with a six-shot advantage over Scheffler. Last year, he came close to forcing a playoff in Canada but faltered on the 18th hole. Two victories and six top-10 finishes in 2026 demonstrate Young’s excellent form, as he clearly saves his energy for Shinnecock Hills.
Finally, Jordan Spieth, a three-time major champion, is another prominent name missing from Osprey Valley. Spieth has had an inconsistent season, with no wins in signature tournaments, but he remains lethal on the greens. His last appearance was at the Memorial Tournament, and his decision not to compete in the RBC Canadian Open seems to be related to a total focus on the US Open, in an attempt to return to his best moments.
The simultaneous absence of these five stars at the RBC Canadian Open raises the bar for the remaining participants, opening the door to surprises and an unpredictable competitive dynamic. For the tournament, it is an opportunity to see other names shine, but for fans, there is a sense that a showcase of luxury has been lost, especially in such a highly anticipated edition in Toronto.
The discussion about which of these players would have been the favorite to win is heated on social media and among commentators. For many, McIlroy would be the main contender, given his connection to the tournament and his victorious history. Others do not rule out Scheffler, due to his consistency and recent dominance. However, everyone agrees that the collective absence of these five stars takes away some of the shine and unpredictability from the event.
With the US Open approaching, it is clear that competitive scheduling and physical management are now absolute priorities for the elite of world golf. What follows will be decisive: the eyes of the world will be on Shinnecock Hills, where these stars promise to return to the highest level and attempt to conquer the most coveted trophy of the summer. Until then, the RBC Canadian Open 2026 will have to reinvent itself without its main protagonists, giving the stage to new talents and potential surprises.
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