Challenges Faced by Dustin Johnson: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Dustin Johnson's life and career.

Dustin Johnson is a celebrated American professional golfer, known for his powerful drives and impressive record. He has secured two major championships: the 2016 U.S. Open and the 2020 Masters Tournament, setting a record score at the latter. Johnson has also achieved six World Golf Championships victories, placing him second only to Tiger Woods in this category and is the only player to win each of the four World Golf Championship events. Since 2022, he has been a participant in The LIV Golf League.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2009: Reported Positive Test for Marijuana

In 2014, Golf Magazine reported that Dustin Johnson had a 2009 positive drug test for marijuana.

2010: Took Three-Shot Lead at 2010 U.S. Open

At the 2010 U.S. Open, Dustin Johnson took a three-shot lead over Graeme McDowell but struggled in the final round, shooting an 82 to finish tied for eighth.

2010: Received Penalty at 2010 PGA Championship

In the final round of the 2010 PGA Championship, Dustin Johnson received a two-stroke penalty for grounding his club in a bunker, dropping him to a tie for fifth place.

2012: Reported Positive Test for Cocaine

In 2014, Golf Magazine reported that Dustin Johnson had a 2012 positive drug test for cocaine.

2012: Incurred Back Injury and Won FedEx St. Jude Classic

In March 2012, Dustin Johnson incurred a back injury and missed over two months. He returned to competition in late May and won his sixth tour event, the FedEx St. Jude Classic in Memphis, Tennessee.

July 31, 2014: Announced Leave for Personal Challenges

On July 31, 2014, Dustin Johnson announced he was taking the rest of the season off to seek professional help for "personal challenges".

2015: Missed Putt at 2015 U.S. Open

At the 2015 U.S. Open, Dustin Johnson missed a three-foot putt on the 18th hole to give the title to Jordan Spieth.

2017: Withdrew from 2017 Masters Tournament Due to Injury

Prior to the 2017 Masters Tournament, Dustin Johnson suffered a back injury after falling down a staircase and withdrew from the event.

September 2018: Participation in the 2018 Ryder Cup

In September 2018, Dustin Johnson was part of the U.S. team that participated in the 2018 Ryder Cup. The U.S. team was defeated by the European team with a score of 17 1/2 to 10 1/2 at Le Golf National near Paris, France.

September 30, 2018: Alleged Disagreement at the Ryder Cup

On the evening of September 30, 2018, following the U.S. team's loss at the Ryder Cup, it was alleged that Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka had to be separated after a disagreement.

April 2019: Runner-up Finish at the Masters Tournament

In April 2019, Dustin Johnson tied for second place in the Masters Tournament, finishing one stroke behind Tiger Woods. This close finish added to his record in major championships.

2020: Withdrawal from the 2020 Summer Olympics

In 2020, Dustin Johnson's agent announced that he would not be participating in the 2020 Summer Olympics due to his schedule.

June 2022: Joining LIV Golf and Resigning from the PGA Tour

In June 2022, Dustin Johnson's decision to join the LIV Golf Invitational Series led to the end of his sponsorship with RBC. Following this, he resigned from the PGA Tour, making him ineligible for PGA Tour events and the Presidents Cup.