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American issues apology for persistent gobbing during Northern Trust Open
Brad behaviour: Keegan Bradley was roundly condemned for his frequent spitting at Riviera last weekend
Keegan Bradley has taken to Twitter to apologise for his persistent spitting during last weekend’s Northern Trust Open at Riviera.
The reigning US PGA champion, the PGA Tour’s ‘Rookie of the Year’ in 2011, finished runner-up in the tournament behind Bill Haas, who defeated Bradley and Phil Mickelson at the second extra hole of a play-off. However, that thrilling finale was over-shadowed somewhat by Bradley’s antics.
The 25-year-old American was roundly criticised for his behaviour by many within the game, including Sky Golf analyst Denis Pugh and Solheim Cup star Christina Kim.
However, to his credit, Bradley has recognised the error of his ways and took to Twitter to say sorry to anyone offended by his expectorating.
“I’d like to apologize for my spitting,” he said. “It’s like a reflex, I don’t even know I’m doing it, but it’s a longtime habit I’ve got to try to conquer.”
One of Bradley’s main sponsors, top equipment company Cleveland Golf, also jumped to its man’s defence.
“We proudly stand by Keegan, as we have since he was on the Hooter’s Tour. We know that he has a few quirks…” said the company on its Twitter feed, adding: “We couldn’t be happier to have a guy like @Keegan_Bradley as an ambassador for CG and @SrixonGolf!”
It is worth noting that Bradley was by no means the only player spotted spitting during the tournament. Dustin Johnson and Pat Perez were amongst the others caught doing so by the television cameras.
This latest ‘spitting in golf’ furore comes almost a year after Tiger Woods was fined an undisclosed sum by the European Tour for gobbing on a green during the Dubai Desert Classic.
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