Dustin Johnson has withdrawn from next week's 2019 Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, saying he needs another week to get his surgically repaired knee rested and ready for competition.
He will be replaced in the 2019 Hero World Challenge field by Chez Reavie.
Taking to Twitter, Johnson said:
"After a lot of careful thought and consultation, I have decided that it is in my best interest if I withdraw from next week’s Hero World Challenge. While my recovery from knee surgery is complete, I feel another week of physical therapy and practice will best prepare me for the Presidents Cup. I have informed Captain Woods of my decision, which he fully supports and understands, and cannot wait to tee it up with him and my teammates next week in Australia."
After the PGA Tour season ended at the Tour Championship in August, Johnson had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in early September to repair damaged cartilage.
Johnson had a similar surgery in December 2011 and returned weeks later in January 2012. Hero World Challenge host Tiger Woods had a similar surgery after his season ended in August at the BMW Championship, and he won in his one and only start of the fall at the Zozo Championship.
The world No. 4, who was passed by Jon Rahm with his win in last week's DP World Tour Championship Dubai, is still anticipating competing in the Presidents Cup next week in Australia. However, how he will get to Melbourne may be a logistical question. With the Hero World Challenge scheduled to run from Wednesday through Saturday, the American and International players competing at Albany Golf Club in the Bahamas will be able to get an extra travel day as they go around the world.
Brooks Koepka has already withdrawn from the Presidents Cup, citing a re-aggravation of his knee injury at the CJ Cup in October after he slipped and fell. He was replaced by Rickie Fowler.
On the International team, Jason Day has withdrawn from the event, citing a back injury. Ernie Els replaced the Aussie with Byeong-hun An.
