The golf world is reeling from a heartbreaking update as PGA Tour star Jason Day has been forced to withdraw from the 2025 PGA Championship, set to begin on May 15 at Quail Hollow Club, due to a devastating health setback that has left fans stunned and emotional. The 37-year-old Australian, a former world No. 1 and 2015 PGA Championship winner, announced his decision late yesterday, citing a newly diagnosed chronic respiratory condition that has severely impacted his ability to compete. The news has sent shockwaves through the sport, with fans expressing their concern and support across social media platforms.
Day’s statement, released through his management team to Golf Digest, detailed the toll of his health struggle. “After extensive medical evaluation, I’ve been diagnosed with a respiratory condition that’s made breathing and performing at this level impossible right now,” he said. “This wasn’t an easy choice, but my health and family have to come first. I’m gutted to miss Quail Hollow, a place where I’ve had so much success.” The condition, which has caused persistent shortness of breath and fatigue, worsened during a recent practice session, forcing Day to prioritize recovery over defending his past glory at the event where he triumphed a decade ago.
The withdrawal marks a poignant moment for Day, who had shown signs of a resurgence in 2025 with a T3 at The American Express and a T8 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. His absence leaves a significant gap in the PGA Championship field, where he was anticipated to challenge top contenders like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Jon Rahm. Fans have taken to X to share their heartbreak, with one writing, “Jason Day out of the PGA Championship is devastating—praying for his health!” Another posted, “This hurts to hear. He’s fought so hard to get back to this point.”
The golf community has rallied around Day, with fellow players offering their support. McIlroy, who is also preparing for the championship, told reporters, “Jason’s a warrior, and this is a tough blow. We’re all hoping he comes back stronger.” Tiger Woods, despite his own challenges with injury, echoed similar sentiments in a brief statement: “Jason’s resilience is unmatched—wishing him a speedy recovery.” Day’s history of overcoming adversity, including vertigo that nearly derailed his 2015 U.S. Open win, adds to the emotional weight of this setback, though the current respiratory issue appears more severe and unpredictable.
No specific timeline for Day’s return has been provided, leaving fans anxious about the future of his career. His withdrawal echoes past health-related exits, such as his illness-forced departure from The Players Championship earlier this year, but this time the stakes feel higher given the major championship context. As the PGA Championship approaches, the focus shifts to Day’s recovery, with the golf world united in hope that he can overcome this heartbreaking challenge and return to the course he once dominated.