Dustin Johnson mysteriously withdraws from PGA Tour

Dustin Johnson takes a leave of absence from golf.

In addition to Marc Leishman’s great opening round and Tiger Woods’ return to US golf at the WGC Bridgestone Invitational – came the story of Dustin Johnson’s non-appearance.

Johnson released this statement via his management earlier this week:

“I am taking a leave of absence from professional golf, effective immediately,” Johnson, 30, said in a statement released by his management team which made no reference to the Ryder Cup. “I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced. By committing the time and resources necessary to improve my mental health, physical well-being and emotional foundation, I am confident that I will be better equipped to fulfill my potential and become a consistent champion.”

“I respectfully ask my fans, well-wishers and the media for privacy as I embark upon this mission of self-improvement.”

Dustin Johnson played some great golf at The Open championship only a few weeks ago. A final even-par round saw him finish in a tie for 12th place and on the back of some previously good performances, and sitting fourth place in the FedEx Cup standings, it seemed like a win wasn’t too far away for Johnson.

But Johnson missed the cut at last week’s Canadian Open, and then a photo of him caddying for his fiancé Paulina Gretzky earlier in the week was removed from her Instagram account.

Johnson will also be missing from next week’s final major of the year, the US PGA championship at Valhalla GC and looks set to also miss the Ryder Cup in September.

Johnson also took leave from the PGA Tour in 2012 citing a back injury. The PGA Tour does not disclose suspensions or fines, and because of this rumours circulated that Johnson’s leave of absence at the time was due to a suspension.

There is nothing to say that this is anything other than Johnson wanting to have some time off this time, and the PGA Tour’s only statement has been.

“We have nothing to add to Dustin’s statement, but we wish him well and look forward to his return to the PGA TOUR in the future.”

The guy is an incredible talent on the golf course and deserves more victories. Let’s hope he returns soon.

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