Gary Player clarified his comments about the future of the Ryder Cup in a lengthy post on social media.
Player, 90, initially was critical of the biennial tournament to the Palm Beach Post, labeling it the “worst event in the world.” He then told Golf Digest that he “would like to see them abolish it,” particularly due to the conduct and behavior of the fans at Bethpage Black in September.
On Wednesday, the legendary South African golfer did his best to clarify his comments.
“My comments about the Ryder Cup were intended to be a warning that this great tournament is at risk of coming to an end if the recent behavior in New York is allowed to continue, or even worse, escalate further at future events,” he wrote.
“… It has been brought to my attention that recent media reports have stated that I wish to see an end to the Ryder Cup competition — nothing could be further from the truth! I hold its organizers, the PGA of America and the Ryder Cup Europe, in the highest regard.
“I love the Ryder Cup format as do many millions of fans all over the globe. I want to see this great team competition continue to grow in a manner that allows it to meet the changing commercial needs of its sponsors and partners. But, I desperately want this growth not be at the expense of the dignity and respect which golfers and golf supporters have historically shown to one another. That is what I spoke about and what I am warning about now. I want nothing more than that the Ryder Cup continues in perpetuity.”
Team Europe survived a near-unprecedented rally by the United States team to prevail 15-13 and hoist the 45th Ryder Cup on Sept. 28. It marked Team Europe’s 11th win in the last 15 Ryder Cups and its second in a row under captain Luke Donald of England.
