Dustin Johnson looks set to return to competition at next February’s Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.

Johnson’s return, according to sources, would coincide not only with the birth of his child to Paulina Gretzky, but would mark the end of a six-month suspension as reported by www.golf.com that the American was handed in allegedly failing a drugs test.

“He has some thoughts but nothing definitive,” said his manager, David Winkle. “It’s all baby dependent. He’s no different than anybody else with a child on the way.”

Johnson has not played competitively since the RBC Canadian Open in late July and then shocking the golf world a week later by withdrawing from the WGC – Bridgestone Invitational.

Dustin Johnson, who missed the defence of his WGC – HSBC Champions title, now looks set to return to golf following a six month great at next year’s Farmers Insurance Open. (Photo – Eoin Clarke/www.golffile.ie)

Last fortnight there was posters of Johnson in Shanghai where he had been due to defend his WGC – HSBC Champions title.

In his time away from golf, Johnson has been reported as working hard in the gym and on the practice ground.

His workouts according to Tim Rosaforte include 30-mile bike rides and 40 sessions (including two-a-days) with trainer Joey Diovisalvi.

“I’ve never seen the guy more dialed in,” Diovisalvi said. “From a performance standpoint, it’s as good as I’ve ever seen, maybe better.”

Johnson’s practice sessions with Claude Harmon III at The Floridian have been just as dialed in. Shortly after their first session he shot a new course record 61 at Sherwood CC in California.

“He’s showed up on time, hit balls and has looked good,” Harmon said. “He looks healthy, really calm, and chilled out.”

Whether or not Johnson becoming a father is cause for a change in his habits only time will tee.  But then Butch Harmon says the jury is still out.

“I talked to him last week,” said Harmon.

“He sounded good, the best I’ve heard in years, so I’m cautiously optimistic.”