Dustin Johnson reportedly fell on some stairs in his rental home, and seriously injured his back. Johnson’s manager, David Winkle, said in a statement that the world No. 1 slipped on a staircase and landed hard on his lower back. His status for tomorrow’s first round of the Masters is now up in the air.
“At roughly 3:00 pm today, Dustin took a serious fall on a staircase in his Augusta rental home,” Winkle wrote in a statement. “He landed very hard on his lower back and is now resting, although quite uncomfortably. He has been advised to remain immobile and begin a regimen of anti-inflammatory medication and icing, with the hope of being able to play tomorrow.”
Johnson is paired with Bubba Watson and Jimmy Walker in the final group on Thursday with a 2:03 PM tee time. Some theorize the late start may give DJ more time to heal.
Only upside for Dustin re injury: Scheduled to tee off at 2:03 pm. Gives him a little extra time.
— Brian Wacker (@brianwacker1) April 5, 2017
Potential saving grace for Dustin Johnson tomorrow: Playing in last group at 2:03 p.m., he'll have all day to receive treatment and rest.
— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelESPN) April 5, 2017
The winner of three-straight tournaments, Johnson was the heavy favorite to capture his first Green Jacket this weekend.
Updates…
DJ immediately canceled his appearance at the GWAA dinner…Per Jason Sobel
Dustin Johnson was scheduled to receive POY award from Golf Writers Association of America at a dinner tonight. He has already canceled.
— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelESPN) April 5, 2017
According to Tim Rosaforte…
.@TimRosaforte: Johnson was on a short staircase going into the basement when his feet went out from under him. http://glfwr.ld/cMcqvYz pic.twitter.com/Z5CzppkPzE
— Golf World (@GolfWorld) April 5, 2017