Dustin Johnson Takes Leave Of Absence To "Seek Professional Help"

Golfer Dustin Johnson has announced he's taking a leave of absence, effective immediately, from the PGA tour to deal with "personal challenges I have faced." Here's his full statement:

"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."

Earlier this week, Johnson withdrew from the Bridgestone Invitational. His status for next week's PGA Championship is very much in question, as is his participation in September's Ryder Cup—he's No. 5 in the standings for the U.S. team and likely to be an automatic qualifier.