6 Apr 2017

Johnson falls, in doubt for Masters

9:55 am on 6 April 2017

The world golf number one Dustin Johnson's participation in the U.S. Masters this week is in doubt after he injured his back in a freak accident.

Dustin Johnson

Dustin Johnson Photo: Photosport

Johnson is favourite to win the Masters title after victories in his last three tournaments.

His manager David Winkle said in a statement "At roughly 3:00 pm today, Dustin took a serious fall on a staircase in his Augusta rental home."

"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. I will refrain from commenting further until I know more about Dustin's condition."

The Masters starts in Augusta tomorrow with Johnson scheduled to play alongside fellow Americans Bubba Watson and Jimmy Walker in the last group out.

-Reuters