Jake Knapp forced out of $20m PGA Tour event at Quail Hollow

Jake Knapp has withdrawn from this week's Truist Championship ahead of the opening round. 

The 31-year-old American was set to compete in the $20m signature event - the sixth of the season - but has not recovered from a thumb injury sustained last week, which also forced him to pull out of the Cadillac Championship in Miami.

Knapp's withdrawal was confirmed by the official PGA Tour communications team on Tuesday. 

The one-time PGA Tour winner, currently ranked 36th in the Official World Golf Ranking, has been replaced in the field by his compatriot Austin Smotherman. 

Knapp isn't the only notable player to withdraw from the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte. 

Two-time major winner, Collin Morikawa, also withdrew and has been replaced by Andrew Putnam. 

Morikawa sustained a freak back injury in March and limped out of the 2026 Players Championship after playing only one hole at Sawgrass.  

He returned to action at the Masters and posted an impressive top 10 finish at the first men's major of the year despite appearing to be in visible discomfort, particularly during the final round at Augusta National. 

Knapp's withdrawal is a setback given his strong form in 2026. 

He has recorded five top-10 finishes in nine starts and currently sits 36th in the world rankings

Knapp has played five majors since 2024, with a best finish of tied 11th at this year's Masters. 

His record otherwise includes three missed cuts and a tie for 55th.

The 2026 Truist Championship is headlined by reigning Masters champion, Rory McIlroy, who is making his first start since defending his green jacket. 

McIlroy was spotted congratulating last week's winner, Cameron Young, on the range at the beginning of the week and will address reporters on Wednesday. 

The Northern Irishman boasts an impressive record here, with four wins (2010, 2015, 2021, 2024). 

World number one, Scottie Scheffler, has decided not to play this week. 

Scheffler, who has also added the 3M Open to his schedule, has decided to re-charge his batteries ahead of his title defence at the PGA Championship.