Pros advice

Dustin Johnson to take a leave of absence from golf


Dustin Johnson is taking a leave of absence from golf to seek help for what he describes as “personal challenges.” The decision was announced on Thursday, meaning the American will not be playing in the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup events.

Johnson finished tied for ninth at the British Open earlier this month before missing the cut at the Canadian Open last week. His statement did not specify when he plans on returning to the game.


Dustin Johnson’s statement in full:

“I am taking a leave of absence from professional golf, effective immediately. 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.”


30-year-old Johnson is considered by many as one of the top players in the game. And while he did not divulge the reasons behind his absence, his agent has confirmed fans will not see him participate in the Aug. 7-10 PGA Championship in Louisville or the Sept. 26-28 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles in Scotland.


Statement from Tom Watson:

"We will certainly miss Dustin Johnson at Gleneagles, and we wish him the best.

"As one of the longest hitters in the game with an undefeated record of 3-0 at Medinah in 2012, he has clearly been an asset for the United States team."


Statement from PGA Tour:

"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."


TaylorMade Golf was quick to extend support for one of its players, in a short but promising statement which read: “TaylorMade-adidas Golf supports Dustin Johnson’s decision to temporarily step away from the PGA Tour. We wish him well and look forward to his return.”


On behalf of everyone at american golf, we wish Dustin Johnson well and hope to see him back on the golf course again soon.