Big-hitting American star golfer Dustin Johnson has taken a leave of absence from professional golf to seek help for what he calls personal challenges.

Johnson, a noticeable absentee from this week’s lucrative WGC Bridgestone Invitational, issued a statement saying he would be out of the sport indefinitely.

“I am taking a leave of absence from professional golf, effective immediately,” the statement read.

“I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced.

“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 fulfil my potential and become a consistent champion.

“I respectfully ask my fans, well-wishers and the media for privacy as I embark upon this mission of self improvement.”

Johnson walks away from the game at an important time of the season with the year’s final major, the PGA Championship, next week.

He could also miss the US PGA tour playoffs and may not take his earned place in the US Ryder Cup team to play in Scotland at the end of September.

The US PGA Tour declined to be drawn into specifics.

“We have nothing to add to Dustin’s statement but we wish him well and look forward to his return to the PGA tour in the future,” a spokesman said.

It is unclear if the tour has any part in the absence as it has long held the policy of not announcing or disclosing any sanctions or suspensions of its members.