Professional golfer Justin Thomas has issued an apology after he was caught using an anti-gay slur when he missed a putt.
Thomas—currently the third ranked golfer in the world—was competing at the Sentry Tournament of Champions on Sunday. He missed a five-foot putt on the fourth hole, when he muttered the homophobic slur.
Unfortunately for the golfer, his mic was hot when he spoke.
WARNING: NSFW language
Big fan, not a great look.
Are we gonna apologize for the language here @JustinThomas34 @PGATOUR ? pic.twitter.com/QvIYdOv7F9
— Imsolazy (@DustyBurlap) January 10, 2021
Right?!
It's obvious this is a go to frustration phrase of his. Also, what a weird one to have, right? Like, it doesn't even feel contextually appropriate? If you're gonna use hostile anti-LGBTQ language, at least conjugate it correctly?
— Nick Schiner (@ObiWanNICKobi) January 11, 2021
Yeah that’s the problem, pal.
— PeacefullyDisgruntledCitizen (@PeacefullyDisg1) January 10, 2021
Hope someone can get @JustinThomas34 to talk about why he used the language he did after missing his par putt on 4. I’m all for these guys being able to swear and show emotion, but if I heard what I’m pretty positive I heard, then that’s really, really not good.
— Shaun Bisson (@shaun_bisson) January 10, 2021
After the moment went viral, Thomas spoke with the AP and apologized for his actions.
He said:
“It’s inexcusable. First off, I just apologize.”
“I’m an adult. I’m a grown man, there’s absolutely no reason for me to say anything like that.”
“It’s terrible. I’m extremely embarrassed.”
“It’s not who I am, it’s not the kind of person that I am or anything that I do.”
“Unfortunately, I did it and I have to own up to it and I’m very apologetic.”
Thomas was not initially aware his mic was on and his comment was a hot topic on social media until after the round. It’s speculated finding out had an effect on his golf game.
He finished the round tied for fifth when he came in as the defending champion. He ended the tournament in third place.
Some people felt this was too much and Thomas should be forgiven.
Great reply! Unfortunately it was lost on most of this audience.
— Mike Nobis (@nobis_kid) January 10, 2021