Former champion Jon Rahm has withdrawn from the US Open due to a foot injury.
Rahm was forced out of the LIV Golf League event in Houston during Saturday’s second round because of an infection in his left foot and arrived for his pre-tournament press conference at Pinehurst wearing one shoe and one flip-flop.
The two-time major winner admitted his participation was in doubt and, around six hours later, announced he would be unable to compete in the year’s third major.
“After consulting with numerous doctors and my team, I have decided it is best for my long-term health, to withdraw from this week’s US Open Championship,” Rahm wrote on social media.
“To say I’m disappointed is a massive understatement! I wish all my peers the best of luck and want to thank all of the USGA staff, volunteers and community of Pinehurst for hosting and putting on what I’m sure will be an amazing championship!
“Hopefully I’ll be back in action sooner than later!”
After telling the general media at Pinehurst No. 2 that the infection in the little toe of his left foot is “a concern”, the LIV Golf star and 2021 champion admitted to the Spanish media that he might not compete if he feels he can’t win.
Speaking to Ten Golf, Rahm said: “I don’t know what I will do if I continue to feel the way I feel now. Sincerely, I don’t know.
“As a competitor, I would say yes (I will compete), but I didn’t try to go out on the course today. What I am sure about is that if it wasn’t a major, I wouldn’t be here.
“The problem isn’t just my foot but the adjustments I am making in my swing so it doesn’t hurt.
“I am worried about injuring myself in another area and putting the season at risk.
“On the other hand, if it gets to the point where I don’t think I can win, I don’t know if it’s worth teeing it up.”
According to TenGolf.com, the former world number one had a medical appointment with a specialist in Charlotte on Tuesday afternoon to see if a more aggressive treatment plan might allow him to tee it up on Thursday.