It is the policy of the PGA Tour to not talk about sanctions -- fines or suspensions -- taken against its players. It made the rare exception on Friday, issuing a statement saying a report that Dustin Johnson has been suspended under its anti-doping program is false.
"With regard to media reports, Mr. Johnson has taken a voluntary leave of absence and is not under suspension from the PGA Tour," the Tour said in a statement tweeted by Golf Channel's Jason Sobel.
Golf.com reported earlier Friday that Johnson will be serving a six-month suspension under their anti-doping program as a result of a positive test for cocaine. Tour officials declined to comment for that report, but issued the statement late on Friday as reaction spread.
On Thursday, Johnson issued a statement saying he would be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the PGA Tour to address what he described as "personal challenges."
“I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced,” Johnson said in a statement issued by his management company. “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.”
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