Revealed: What Camilo Villegas told Kevin Kisner in Presidents Cup argument

Villegas Questions Kisner’s Sensitivity During Fiery Day One of 2024 Presidents Cup

A tense moment unfolded on the first day of the 2024 Presidents Cup at Royal Montreal when Camilo Villegas reportedly questioned Kevin Kisner’s reaction during a heated exchange. The incident occurred after a controversial moment involving the International duo of Tom Kim and Sungjae Im, who drew the ire of Team USA.

The drama began when Tom Kim sank a long birdie putt on the 8th hole and immediately headed to the next tee box without waiting for his opponent, Scottie Scheffler, to complete his putt. This action is widely regarded as a breach of golf etiquette, causing a stir among players and commentators alike. Former European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley did not hold back, labeling Kim and Im’s conduct as “disrespectful.”

The situation escalated when Team USA assistant captain Kevin Kisner confronted his International counterpart Camilo Villegas before the players took their tee shots on the 9th hole. On-course commentator John Wood noted that the interaction between Kisner and Villegas “didn’t look that friendly,” signaling the palpable tension between the two camps.

Despite the heated exchange, Scheffler and his partner Russell Henley maintained their composure, eventually securing a 3&2 victory in the fourball contest. This win contributed to a dominant opening day for Team USA. Reflecting on the incident, Scheffler downplayed the situation, describing it as “just a bit of fun.” Tom Kim, however, was more candid, admitting that he relished the competitive spirit. “He gave it to me, and I gave it to him back on the next hole,” Kim said, adding, “I don’t shy away from him. He’s a good friend, but this week I don’t like him. I want to beat him so bad, and I’m sure he feels the same way.”

Kim’s on-course antics did not end there, as he also voiced his disappointment with the home crowd, accusing them of not being loud enough, which further added to the day’s controversies.

It was later revealed what transpired between Villegas and Kisner during their tense exchange. Kisner expressed his frustration to the Golf Channel, stating, “They took gamesmanship too far and over the line on sportsmanship and lost some integrity. I thought it was pretty bush league, and I told Camilo that if that’s the way they want to do it, then game on. If you can p*** off my No.1 player in the world, then I’m all for it.”

Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis reported that Villegas, appearing unfazed, responded, “Why are you being so sensitive?” To which Kisner replied, “Because I play by the rules.” Villegas shot back, “Nothing against the rules of leaving the green.”

As the tournament progressed into its second day, Scheffler and Henley were set to take on Si Woo Kim and Ben An in the foursomes. In a surprising move, Tom Kim was not included in the lineup, suggesting that the controversy surrounding him may have influenced this decision.

The intensity and competitive spirit displayed on day one of the Presidents Cup set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling contest, as Team USA and the International Team continue to battle for supremacy at Royal Montreal.