As a ‘Hatless’ Patrick Cantlay Ignites Feud Rumors, Captain Zach Johnson Goes in Damage Control Mode With Bizarre Confession

The Ryder Cup has ended with its team sessions and what a day it was! As the second day came to an end, both teams were boiling with passion and greed to win. Patrick Cantlay’s 18th-hole putt is going around as the highlight of the day.

Followed by questions touching on a hatless Cantlay at the post-round press conference, American captain Zach Johnson cleared the air. People are unnecessarily upset, suggests his comment. He went after the media too. 

Zach Johnson on Patrick Cantlay choosing to go hat-less

The Saturday session of the Ryder Cup has shown a glimmer of hope for Team US. The fierce match-up of Patrick Cantlay and Wyndham Clark against Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick resulted in the US concluding the fourballs with 3-1. Patrick’s birdie at the 18th hole and a no-hat celebration right after sparked a question of why is he not wearing one. In fact, the issue was doing the rounds on social media even before that.

A report by James Weir from Sky Sports suggests that the world number 5 is upset with players not getting paid at the Ryder Cup. Players do not receive payment for participating in the Ryder Cup as it is mainly played for the nation’s pride, and they donate any money generated to charities. Cantlay, by refusing to wear a hat, was protesting against the same rules. Furthermore, sources state that Cantlay’s behavior has caused a rift in the US team.

Amidst all the speculations and reports, US Captain Zach Johnson cleared the air around a no-hat Cantlay and the rift in the press conference. Johnson said, “I don’t think he likes the fit of the hats. I know that. That’s what the facts are. He doesn’t like the fit of the hats. The facts are he didn’t wear a hat two years ago at Whistling Straits.” 

Additionally, Zach called the news about the rift within the team “poor journalism”, and added, “This is one of the most united teams I have ever been associated with.” Cantlay himself explained in a TV interview that “it [hat] just doesn’t fit. It’s as simple as that.”

Rory McIlroy finds the celebration out of line

Read More: You Are Getting Crushed’: Golf Fans Left Divided After Team USA’s Controversial Tribute to Patrick Cantlay’s Insane Win

A drama entailed at the Marco Simone between Rory McIlroy and Patrick’s caddie Joe LaCava while Cantlay was celebrating his win. After making the winning putt, Cantlay faced the crowd and waved his imaginary hat. Team US members joined in by waving theirs. Joe LaCava’s celebratory act came into Rory’s line of sight as he was preparing to tie the hole. 

According to team Europe captain Luke Donald, McIlroy found the “line was crossed” and it was disrespectful. The fight at the course continued till the parking lot, as Rory was having a heated argument. Zach later assured that the fight was resolved between the two.

Both teams enter the finale with a (Europe) 10.5-5.5 (USA) scoreline. Team US needs to put out a remarkable performance to hit 14 and retain their cup. Who do you think will be victorious in the end? Tell us in the comments!

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