Austrian professional golfer Matthias Schwab is taking a break from the sport to prioritize his mental health, according to GolfMagic. The 31-year-old, who was once ranked in the top 100, has fallen to 1,177th and cited struggles off the course as a significant factor.
What happened
Matthias Schwab announced his indefinite break from professional golf through a heartfelt Instagram post. He expressed, “Hi everyone, for some time now I have been struggling a lot mentally and emotionally.” Schwab explained that his downturn in form, which has persisted for several years, has begun to enact a toll on his life outside of golf.[2]
He stated, “After a lot of reflection, I have decided to take time away from professional golf to focus on life off the golf course.” He noted that he will not be competing in any tournaments for the foreseeable future, saying, “I don’t know what the timeline for a return will look like.” Schwab emphasized his gratitude toward his family and supporters during this difficult period.[3]
Why it matters
Schwab’s decision underscores the growing recognition of mental health issues among professional athletes. The pressures of competition can have profound effects, leading some to step back for their well-being. His situation invites broader discussions on mental health support in sports.[1]
Background
Schwab turned professional in 2017 but has yet to secure a tournament victory. His best performance came in 2019 when he finished 19th in the Race to Dubai standings. Recently, he has primarily competed on the developmental HotelPlanner Tour, with disappointing results: he missed eight cuts out of eleven starts this season.
On May 20, 2026, Schwab made a return to the DP World Tour at his national open but failed to make the cut. He acknowledged his struggles in finding passion for the game, stating, “It’s been a tough year, so far, or even really tough two, three, four years.”
What’s next
As Schwab focuses on his mental health, he has not provided a timeline for his return to competitive golf. His decision reflects a trend among athletes to prioritize personal well-being over career pressures.
