[PHOTO: David Cannon]

Ludvig Aberg, the 24-year-old PGA Tour rookie who has risen to sixth in the Official World Golf Ranking, has withdrawn from this week’s signature Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow in Charlotte, a week before the PGA Championship at Valhalla.

In a statement posted to social media by the PGA Tour, Aberg said, “I was very excited to tee it up at Quail Hollow for the first time. Unfortunately, I’m dealing with a knee issue and after consulting with my doctors, we think it’s best that I take some additional time to rest.”

Aberg’s withdrawal leaves the field at 69 players for the $US20 million event.

The Swedest Swing

Aberg, who turned pro last June while coming out of Texas Tech University, notched three official top-five finishes last season, including his maiden victory in the RSM Classic in November. The Swede played on last October’s winning European Ryder Cup team, and in 10 starts this season Aberg already has two runner-up finishes, including in the Masters. Since Augusta, his only start was at the signature RBC Heritage two weeks ago, when he tied for 10th.