Several PGA Tour golfers have publicly rallied behind Patrick Cantlay following a controversial article that accused him of orchestrating a "coup" within the Tour. The Golfweek piece alleged Cantlay, a member of the PGA Tour's policy board, has been actively opposing the proposed agreement with the Saudi Public Investment Fund and attempting to sway other players against it. The article's author, Eamon Lynch, questioned Cantlay's motives, suggesting they weren't rooted in ethical concerns but rather financial self-interest.
Justin Thomas and Patrick Cantlay of the U.S. Team during a practice round at the 2022 Presidents Cup. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Lynch's pointed remarks sparked a wave of support for Cantlay from fellow PGA Tour members. 2013 Masters champion Adam Scott initiated the show of solidarity, posting a message on Instagram criticizing the article's tone and lack of factual basis. Scott questioned the use of inflammatory language and called for a more objective and truthful discussion around the complexities of the PGA-LIV situation.
Patrick Cantlay addresses the media at the RBC Heritage tournament. (Tracy Wilcox/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)
Prominent players like Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, and Will Zalatoris amplified Scott's message, sharing it on their own Instagram stories. Both Fowler and Zalatoris also serve on the player council alongside Cantlay. Cantlay himself has previously expressed confusion surrounding the details of the PGA-LIV agreement. This public display of unity underscores the strong bonds within the PGA Tour and highlights the sensitivity surrounding the ongoing discussions with LIV Golf and the Saudi PIF.
Patrick Cantlay consults with his caddie, Joe LaCava, during The Northern Trust tournament. (Tracy Wilcox/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)
The absence of PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan due to a medical situation further complicates the already delicate circumstances.
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