Patrick Cantlay makes late PGA Tour U-turn after worrying twist

Patrick Cantlay has been forced out of this week's John Deere Classic after suffering an injury just weeks before The Open Championship.

The world No. 8 was the heavy betting favorite heading into Thursday's opening round at TPC Deere Run, but an undisclosed fitness issue has forced him to withdraw. The 32-year-old has been replaced in the field by Scotland's Russell Knox.

With Cantlay not involved, Jordan Spieth, Sepp Straka and Sungjae Im will tee off as joint favorites to take the victory in Illinois. The injury continues a frustrating run for Cantlay, who has not won on the PGA Tour for almost two years and has only four top-10 finishes to his name this season.

READ MORE: Bryson DeChambeau's stress admission shows LIV Golf star's true colors
READ MORE: Brooks Koepka's wife had terrifying fear after botox procedure

The California native's attention turns to getting his body right for next week's Scottish Open at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick, which begins just seven days before The Open at Royal Troon.

"While training for the John Deere Classic, I sustained an injury," Cantlay announced on social media. "Out of an abundance of caution and on the advice of my team, I unfortunately have to miss this week’s event. We are optimistic about a speedy return to competition. Thanks to the fans in the Quad Cities for your support and hope to see you next year!"

Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories.

Cantlay's absence is a blow for a tournament that has struggled to attract a strong field in recent years due to its position in the calendar, fresh off the back of two signature events on the PGA Tour and the U.S. Open. And with the year's final major following in quick succession, none of the top 23 players in the Official World Golf Ranking are taking part as they prioritize their preparation for matters in Scotland.

With Cantlay out of action, Spieth has a welcome chance to find some form and prove he can still mix it among the world's best. The three-time major champion has become an afterthought in the biggest events in recent years, missing the cut at The Players and The Masters before finishes of tied-41st and tied-43rd at the PGA Championship and U.S. Open respectively.

The 30-year-old made a bright start to the season, finishing third at The Sentry and in a tie for sixth at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. But he has been a non-factor since, with just one top-10 finish, five missed cuts and a disqualification at The Genesis Invitational for signing an incorrect scorecard.

Spieth has fallen to No. 32 in the OWGR as a result with his major triumphs an increasingly distant memory. But with a softer field in action this week, the former world No. 1 has a chance to find some momentum.