30 September 2023 , 19:40
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Patrick Cantlay has revealed the bizarre reason for not wearing his Team USA cap at this year's Ryder Cup tournament after coming under heavy criticism from fans. The eight-time PGA Tour winner is making his second appearance at the prestigious tournament, having helped the United States win the competition back in 2021 at Whistling Straits in Haven, Wisconsin, where he won three and tied one of the four matches he played.
Cantlay's apparent refusal to wear the hat comes after reports claim he believes players should be paid to participate. Players have never traditionally been financially rewarded to play, with proceeds instead going to various charities.
Cantlay is the only golfer participating in this year's event at the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome who has not worn a hat. The golfer also went hatless at the 2021 tournament and was asked to clarify why following Saturday's action.
"It just doesn't fit. It's as simple as that," he said. "I didn't wear it at Whistling Straits because the hat just doesn't fit so that's all there is."
Following his comments, he was asked directly by a journalist whether he believes golfers should be paid to play in the Ryder Cup. "I’m not here to talk about that," he replied. "This is all about Team USA."
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Reports from Sky Sports have also claimed that Cantlay's actions have caused a rift within Zach Johnson's USA team. The report said he refused to attend the gala dinner earlier in the week and his good friend Xander Schauffele opted to sit away from his teammates in the dressing room.
Patrick Cantlay has responded to claims of a rift within the USA team at the Ryder Cup (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)Spectators supporting Team Europe made light of the situation during his game against Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick. The former FedExCup champion was subjected to chants and jeers on the 10th hole.
Fans could be seen waving their hats in the air while singing: “Hats off for your bank account.” The chants were followed by: "Cantlay, where's your cap? Cantlay, Cantlay where's your cap?"
The team has since dispelled the claims of a rift when Cantlay managed a birdie on the 17th. T he former FedExCup champion went on to convert an impressive 45-foot birdie at the last to give the team a 1-up win and vital points for the U.S.
The team was seen emphatically celebrating together while also waving their hats above their heads.
Team USA is currently suffering a heavy defeat to Europe, with Luke Donald's team holding a five-point lead going into the final day.