Marc Leishman has pulled out of this week's Masters to be with his wife as she recovers from a "life-threatening" illness.

The Australian's partner Audrey was placed in an induced coma at an urgent care centre in Virginia this week after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

He issued a statement which read: "It is with both deep regret and incredible relief I am withdrawing from the Masters tournament this week. My wife Audrey has survived a life threatening medical emergency and I have decided to remain by her side with our children.

"Thanks to an incredible team of doctors and nurses Audrey appears to be on the road to a full recovery. Our two young children remain blessed to have the world's best mum in their lives. I want to pass along our thanks to all who supported us through this difficult period.

"We ask that you keep Audrey in your thoughts and prayers and I wish my best to all of the competitors for a great 2015 Masters."

World number 119 Leishman finished tied for fourth at Augusta in 2013. His withdrawal leaves the Masters field at 97 players, with no alternates on standby for the first Major of the year.