GOLF star Phil Mickelson is out of action indefinitely following a second sports hernia surgery.

    Mickelson’s representation disclosed the five-time major winner’s second surgery in two months Monday for a tear or strain of muscles in the lower abdomen and groin area. The 46-year-old had the first procedure performed Oct. 19, the same day Mickelson’s caddie, Jim “Bones” Mackay, had a double knee replacement.

    While there was no indication from the first procedure how long Mickelson would need to recover, a successful procedure typically has a recovery time of 4-6 weeks. With a second surgery, it’s unclear how much time will be added to the recovery and rehabilitation schedule.

    After the first surgery, Mickelson detailed how he dealt with the complication through the season. “It was a walnut-sized hernia behind my belly button,” Mickelson told Golf World in November. “It was no big deal, nor did it affect me when I played. I pushed it back in every minute or so. I couldn’t work out as intensely as I wanted to, that’s all. It didn’t hurt or affect me.”

    He performed well through the season despite the problems, nearly winning in Pebble Beach, Memphis and at the British Open in July.(SD-Agencies)