(Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, golf journalist) ○…”I sincerely apologize.”
Brady Schnell (USA) said on social media on the 10th (Korean time): “I recently made some disrespectful remarks towards Singh” and added: “I will use this incident as an opportunity to improve myself.” The controversy began when Schnell criticized Vijay Singh (Fiji, pictured), known as “Black Pearl”, for his announcement to participate in the Korn Ferry (2nd tier) Tour Challenge on June 11, saying: “If you participate in the 2nd tier tour, you are truly trash. He added: “Because prize money and ranking points in this tournament are very important for young players.”
Singh is a seasoned veteran with three major victories and a total of 34 victories on the PGA Tour. His career earnings are $71.22 million (KRW 87 billion), ranking him 4th all-time. The 2nd tier tour doesn’t really suit Singh. Due to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States, there are no other tournaments to attend. During the same period, the PGA Tour Charles Schwab Challenge does not allow him to participate, and the Champions (Senior) Tour for players aged 50 and over will resume at the end of July.
Singh chose the 2nd tier tour to adjust his competitive shooting skills, which sparked controversy. Schnell pointed out: “It definitely takes away opportunities for the 2nd tier players on the tour,” and added: “Singh can play with his senior friends if he waits a little longer.” Phil Mickelson (USA) defended Singh the next day, saying: “I’m not close to Singh, but he has the right to play in the tournaments he wants”, but Singh did not respond meaningfully.
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