English professional golfer Marco Penge announced Tuesday that he will not compete in next week’s U.S. Open championship as he continues battling ongoing health complications involving his nervous system, ears and neck.
The 28-year-old golfer has been struggling with these medical issues for eight months after contracting a viral infection in November 2025. Despite having a promising start to his first season on the PGA Tour, Penge declared last month that he would step away from competitive play to prioritize his health recovery.
His decision to take a break came after the PGA Championship, where he failed to make the cut due to a sinus infection that triggered vertigo symptoms. Although Penge had hoped to compete in next week’s major championship at Shinnecock Hills, he confirmed his withdrawal on Tuesday.
“Unfortunately, myself and my team have decided that i am going to have to WD from the @usopengolf championship which Im gutted about,” Penge wrote on X. “My health is the no.1 priority for now and until i get to the bottom of the issues i wont be competing. The plan is to return fully fit.”
“I have had numerous scans and seen several specialists and we are getting close to resolving the issue that I’ve been struggling with for 8 months. I Appreciate the continued support as always and Ill be back soon!” he added.
In a May 12 post on X, Penge revealed he had been battling “ear/neck/nervous system” complications since his November viral infection. After ongoing struggles with sinus problems and vertigo, he received an MRI examination of his brain, head and neck areas.
“Thankfully the images were great and so a few of the doubts I have had have gone away which is a big relief,” he shared in that earlier post.
Following three victories on the DP World Tour during the previous season, Penge has successfully made the cut in seven of his 12 tournament appearances this year, highlighted by a fourth-place tie at the Valspar Championship. His world ranking peaked at 29th in the Official World Golf Ranking but has dropped to 47th position since his competitive hiatus began.
