The 2023 Ryder Cup sure was dramatic. Remember Rory McIlroy and Joe LaCava having it out in the parking lot? Well, there was a lot of back and forth, which then resulted in the Northern Irishman being rushed into a car by Shane Lowry. But how did it all start? If you take a close look back, it all stemmed from one thing: rumors of Patrick Cantlay not wearing his hat owing to the Ryder Cup’s ‘no-pay’ policy! This sure did put a dent in the golfer’s image back then. However, fast forward to the present, and it appears the PGA Tour pro’s infamous public perception has been replaced by that of a philanthropist.

The 32-year-old athlete, as per PGA Tour, has managed to raise money for his Patrick Cantlay Foundation, thanks to the RSM Birdies Fore Love competition. Any idea what it entails? Well, the initiative allows the golfer who makes the most birdies each week during the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup Fall season to receive a substantial payout. They can donate that money to any beneficiary of their choice.

“I am very appreciative of the RSM Birdies Fore Love program,” said Cantlay, “Because it will help our mission at the Patrick Cantlay Foundation to support junior golf and first responders.” Moreover, he also expressed how grateful he is to be able to support the Southern California PGA with the money garnered through the Fall season’s tournaments.

But if you think that was the only way the pro supports many organizations, then you’re sorely mistaken. He also hosts a 4-event series in the Toyota Tour Cup Series known as The Patrick Cantlay Series. The initiative, interestingly enough, gives playing opportunities to elite junior golfers in the southern part of California.

That’s not all. Cantlay also supports a program known as the SCPGA Foundation’s Junior Golf Grant Program, which helps underprivileged youth in Southern California through golf, among others. Despite having such a philanthropic side to him, the golfer was unfortunately made the target of many due to the speculations surrounding him wanting dollar bills.

What was the actual reason behind Patrick Cantlay not wearing a hat?

“The money issue was not talked about, at all” revealed the American Ryder Cup star, “Leading up to the Ryder Cup or during the week of the Ryder Cup.” He pointed out how funny it was that such speculations came into being despite him not wearing a hat even back in the 2021 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits. “We go to Europe and they’ve figured out a way to turn it against me. That is quintessential Ryder Cup.”

Curious about the actual reason? Look no further. The PGA Tour, back then, came out candidly on the reason behind his choice as well. “Look, I didn’t wear a hat because the hat didn’t fit exactly as I would have liked,” said Cantlay. “I’m very particular about pretty much anything I put on. And I just didn’t feel comfortable wearing it… There is just nothing more behind it than I just felt more comfortable not wearing one.”

He didn’t stop there. He also went ahead to talk about how he would never silently protest. “I’ll say one thing,” added the pro, “If I was to make a protest, everyone would know what I’m protesting, why I’m protesting, and how I’m protesting.” Quite an admirable character Patrick Cantlay has, to be honest. No wonder he is big on helping others in need. Kudos to the golfer!