When Tom Kim, the 22‑year‑old South Korean golfer, stepped up to the podium after his third‑round match at the Presidents Cup, he didn’t just talk birdies – he accused members of the United States team of cursing at the International side.
The allegation came on at the historic Royal Montreal Golf Club in Canada, where the biennial competition is now in its 15th edition. Kim said the atmosphere "got a little feisty" on the 11th hole, and that he could hear some US players shouting profanity toward his group.
He added, "I don’t think there was good sportsmanship there, but it’s all part of the fun. I understand it. So the U.S. Team definitely motivated us to go out there." While the remark sparked a media frenzy, Kim did not name the offenders, insisting that his critique was aimed at the "behaviour, not the individuals."
The Presidents Cup pits a United States team against an International squad composed of players from everywhere except Europe. Since its inception in 1994, the US has won 13 of the 15 contests, a record that has led some analysts to question the event’s competitiveness.
In 2024, the stakes felt higher than usual. After a dominant 5‑0 opening day, Team USA, under the leadership of captain Jim Furyk, appeared poised to clinch yet another title. Meanwhile, International captain Mike Weir was grappling with a historic deficit that few teams have recovered from.
Following his match, Kim addressed a sea of reporters, his voice tinged with frustration. "I think the start of the round was definitely a little harder, but as it got towards the end, it got a little feisty out there," he said.
He specifically pointed to the 11th hole, where, according to Rex Hoggard of Golf Channel, US players were "very loud, very vocal" toward the International side. "You see me out there throwing fist pumps and jumping on the green. It's all part of it, I get it. I just don't think there's a need to look at someone and curse at them," Kim added.
Later, in a one‑on‑one with Golf Channel correspondent Todd Lewis, Kim cleared the names of Xander Schauffele, Patrick Cantlay, and their caddies. He declined, however, to identify who exactly he believed crossed the line.
Team USA’s camp responded swiftly. A spokesperson for the United States Golf Association (USGA) said, "We take any allegations of unsportsmanlike conduct seriously and will investigate thoroughly." The USGA did not name any player, emphasizing that the team’s code of conduct applies to all members.
Mike Weir, who has faced criticism for his own emotional outbursts in past events, offered a measured reply: "Golf is a mental game; emotions run high. If something was said that crossed the line, it should be addressed, but we also respect the pressure our players are under."
Commentators were split. Some, like former PGA Tour champion Steve Stricker, argued that the modern game’s amplified crowds and live‑streaming pressures have made “vocal” behavior more common. Others, such as UK sports ethicist Dr. Emily Carter, warned that repeated incidents could erode the long‑standing decorum that golf prides itself on.
The controversy arrives on the heels of last year’s Ryder Cup "HatGate" saga, where Patrick Cantlay was drawn into a dispute over team‑hats and payment splits. That episode, which ended with Cantlay calling the rumors "complete lies," already had fans questioning the vibe inside elite team competitions.
Kim’s claims add another layer, suggesting that the pressure to dominate may be prompting some players to cross unwritten lines. If the USGA’s investigation uncovers concrete violations, the fallout could include fines, caddie suspensions, or even a reevaluation of team selection criteria.
Conversely, if the allegations prove unfounded, the narrative could shift toward media sensationalism, potentially harming Kim’s reputation as a rising star. Either way, the dispute spotlights a growing tension between competitive fire and the genteel tradition that makes events like the Presidents Cup unique.
With three rounds left and the US still leading 8‑3, the tournament’s climax will unfold over the weekend. Both captains have hinted at possible lineup changes to mitigate any lingering tension.
Team USA is expected to field its remaining veterans—including Jordan Spieth and Bryson DeChambeau—while International coach Mike Weir may give a nod to younger talent like Rasmus Hojgaard in a bid to shift momentum.
Meanwhile, the USGA has promised to release a statement by Monday, outlining any disciplinary steps taken. Golf fans worldwide will be watching closely, not just for the final score but for the broader message about conduct on the world stage.
Kim said he heard members of the United States team using profanity toward the International side on the 11th hole during the third round at Royal Montreal Golf Club. He described the behavior as a breach of sportsmanship but did not name the individuals involved.
Kim specifically exonerated Xander Schauffele, Patrick Cantlay and their caddies Austin Kaiser and Joe LaCava. No further names were disclosed.
If the USGA finds evidence of profanity, penalties could range from fines to caddie suspensions, potentially altering line‑ups for the final sessions. Even without formal sanctions, the incident adds psychological pressure on both teams and may influence how aggressively players approach the remaining matches.
Team events like the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup showcase golf’s unique blend of individual skill and collective spirit. Maintaining decorum preserves the sport’s reputation, ensures fair competition, and respects the global audience that expects courtesy alongside high‑level play.
With a 5‑0 lead after day one and a current score of 8‑3, statistical models give Team USA a roughly 85 % probability of clinching the title. However, golf’s volatility means a late surge by the International squad could still make the final day dramatic.
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Tom Kim says US players cursed at the International team during the 2024 Presidents Cup at Royal Montreal, sparking a sportsmanship debate.
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