Dustin Johnson has announced that he is taking a break from golf due to the "personal challenges" he has been forced to face.

The American will begin the sabbatical immediately, meaning that he will miss next week's US PGA Championship and will not be involved in Team USA's bid to take the Ryder Cup away from Europe in Gleneagles next month.

"I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced," a statement released through his management company confirmed.

"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."

Johnson was on course to automatically qualify for Watson's Ryder Cup team.