“Go f**k yourself.” Probably not something you would want to hear, especially from a U.S. captain at the Presidents Cup, and that too when you’re a reporter. But that is exactly what skipper Jim Furyk unloaded on the interviewer. He did so after the journalist hinted at the need for the International team to take down the mighty American squad to make the biennial event more exciting.

“For the sake of the future of the biennial competition,” said Golfweek’s Adam Schupak as he recounted the interview with Furyk, “We needed the equivalent of Eastern Michigan to take down mighty Notre Dame.” The skipper’s reply? Furious would be an understatement as he responded, “So it’s not like I’m killing you right now, but F**k you. Go f**k yourself. You can quote me on that one.”

It all started when news of the skipper-hosted barbecue for the U.S. team players and the assistant captains got out ahead of the Procore Championship. The reporter, naturally so, texted Furyk to find out the menu. “Chicken and steaks,” was the reply, “News travels. You are the second media person to ask.”

The conversation grew, and the two found themselves on a bench at the putting green at Silverado Resort. They talked about the upcoming event, his wildcard picks, and some of the captain’s old memories. But what ticked him off was the journalist dishing out the need for the American team to lose in order to keep the story interesting.

“Really? You’re American,” responded the golfer, “I do actually take offense at that. I don’t hate you but it’s a pretty shi**y thing to say.” Realizing his mistake, the interviewer recounted his experience covering the event over the years since 2011 and added, “Nothing personal, but the competition really needs an International Team victory to energize the matches.” Suffice it to say, that also didn’t go well with Jim Furyk.

Jim Furyk and his passion to lead America to victory

“You should know better,” rebuked the skipper as he said, “I’d rather you not even say good luck than say it and not even mean it.” The athlete then recalled how he has seen grown men cry because of the game, whether from playing badly or playing well, before pointing out how much effort goes into such a tournament. “I know what you’re saying,” added Jim Furyk, “But do you know how offended I am?”

Sure enough, the 54-year-old was full of passion despite being furious about the controversial remarks that were dished out. Fans can now be sure of one thing: they can truly look forward to Furyk and his team displaying their best golf as the U.S. team hopes to increase their record of 12 wins, 1 tie, and 1 loss to a dominating 13-1-1!