The New Zealand golfer Michael Campbell will not return to the venue of his greatest victory for next month's US Open at Pinehurst due to injury and personal problems.
Campbell won his only major the last time the Open was held there in 2005 and holds a ten year exemption to play in the tournament.
However he hasn't played since January after battling an ankle injury and has also separated with his wife.
As a result he says he does not feel he is physically or mentally ready to play tournament golf and has decided not to play at the European Tour's PGA Championship or the US Open.
Campbell says taking time off is the best strategy to allow him to get back to his best.
