Roundup: Dustin Johnson's Leave Of Absence

Steve DiMeglio reports on Dustin Johnson's departure from the tour for an indefinite time citing "personal challenges." The decision also means Johnson, arguably America's most consistent player this year, will not be playing the Ryder Cup.

Rex Hoggard on that part of the equation:

Johnson, 30, was finishing up one of the most consistent seasons of his career, having won his opener last November in Asia, and he was fourth on the FedEx Cup points list. He would also have been one of the favorites for next week’s PGA Championship following his tie for 12th at the Open Championship and his fourth-place finish at the U.S. Open.

Bob Harig explains that the Ryder Cup spot will not be chosen by the captain, but instead, by the points list. Patrick Reed is currently the next player not already eligible.

Sam Weinman notes that a photo of Johnson and fiance Paulina Gretzky was removed from her Instagram account. Johnson was holding a beverage.

A photo posted by Gretzky on Monday showed Johnson caddying for her with a drink in his hand. Gretzky has since taken down the photo from her Instagram account.

"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," Johnson said in the statement.

The PGA Tour's statement is, as expected, free of names, information or any other clues as to what this is all about.

Statements from PGA President Ted Bishop and Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson:

“Obviously we are disappointed Dustin Johnson will not be playing in the PGA Championship or be a part of the 2014 Ryder Cup squad at Gleneagles. Having spent time with Dustin at the last two Ryder Cups, we know he’s an amazingly talented young man capable of winning Major Championships and becoming a Ryder Cup staple for the next two decades. We wish Dustin the best and look forward to his return.”
-- PGA of America President, Ted Bishop
 
"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-and-0 at Medinah in 2012, he has clearly been an asset for the United States team. That said, the United States is a team with an abundance of talent. I am looking forward to teeing it up alongside those players in the PGA Championship at Valhalla, and finding out along with everyone else, which players qualify for the team based on points."
-- 2014 U.S. Ryder Cup Captain, Tom Watson