On a day the football world was shocked to learn that Cristiano Ronaldo had tested positive for Covid-19, the golf world now has a surprise of its own after being advised by the PGA Tour that No.1 world ranked Dustin Johnson has also tested positive for the virus.
The Tour released a statement saying Johnson has withdrawn from this week’s THE CJ CUP @ SHADOW CREEK after experiencing symptoms.
Johnson notified the Tour on arriving at the Las Vegas course and was administered a test, with the positive result forcing his withdrawal from the event.
‘DJ’, who last competed at the U.S. Open, will have the PGA Tour’s full support throughout his self-isolation period under CDC guidelines.
“Obviously, I am very disappointed,” said Johnson. “I was really looking forward to competing this week, but will do everything I can to return as quickly as possible. I have already had a few calls with the Tour’s medical team and appreciate all the support and guidance they have given me.”
First alternate J.T. Poston will replace Johnson in the field.
Johnson is now the 11th player to test positive since the PGA Tour resumed its schedule June 18. It comes one week after Tony Finau, No. 16 in the world, tested positive without symptoms and withdrew from the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas.
Finau was in the field for this week and was eligible to practice at Shadow Creek starting Wednesday. However, he chose to withdraw.
Under the CDC-based protocols on the PGA Tour, Johnson is to self-isolate for 10 days before he can return.
That would leave open the possibility of Johnson playing next week in the Zozo Championship at Sherwood in Thousand Oaks, California. Johnson is a member at Sherwood Country Club, where he spends time with hockey great Wayne Gretzky, the father of Johnson’s partner Paulina Gretzky.
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