World No.1 Johnson forced out of CJ Cup with COVID-19

October 14th, 2020 / Chris Williams

Just as former World No.1, Brooks Koepka, returns to the PGA Tour following injury, the current top player in the world is now on his way out.

PGA Tour officials have announced overnight that World No.1 Dustin Johnson has been forced out of this week’s $9.75 million CJ Cup at Shadow Creek after testing positive for COVID-19.

“Dustin Dustin Johnson won the 2020 Tour Championship (Credit: PGA Tour)

Johnson, who has not played on tour since finishing in 6th place at the US Open, notified officials of his flu-like symptoms and following a subsequent positive test result he was forced to withdraw from the Thursday-starting event.

“Obviously, I am very disappointed. I was really looking forward to competing this week, but will do everything I can to return as quickly as possible,” said Johnson.

“I have already had a few calls with the Tour medical team and appreciate all the support and guidance they have given me.”

Johnson becomes the second high-profile player in the last fortnight to contract the virus with World No.17 Tony Finau pulling out of last week’s Shriners Hospitals for Children Open field.

With a 14-day mandatory self-isolation period, Johnson will also miss the $8 million ZOZO Championship and will be struggling to find high-quality tournaments in which to hone his game prior to the 12th November-starting Masters.