Tom Kim apologizes to Jim Furyk, Xander Schauffele for comments

Tom Kim, a 22-year-old South Korean golfer, issued an apology to U.S. Presidents Cup captain Jim Furyk and team member Xander Schauffele following remarks he made that caused some controversy during the 2024 Presidents Cup. The incident occurred after Kim’s comments on Saturday, when he claimed that members of the U.S. team had been “cursing” at him and his partner, Si Woo Kim, during their foursomes match against Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay.

Kim had described the match as getting “feisty” toward the end, stating, “I could hear some players cursing at us. That part wasn’t really — I don’t think there was good sportsmanship there. But it’s all part of the fun. I understand it.” These remarks drew attention, particularly concerning the level of sportsmanship displayed during the match.

Returning to the Royal Montreal Golf Club on Sunday, Kim played to a tie against Sam Burns. After his match, he sought out both Furyk and Schauffele to clear the air, explaining that his comments were not intended to be harmful. Speaking to reporters after the U.S. team’s 18 1/2-11 1/2 victory over the International squad, Kim elaborated on his apology.

Kim clarified, “It was just about my comments. I told [Furyk and Schauffele], like, hey, I didn’t mean it to go in such a negative way. If it did, I’m sorry. At that moment, coming off the green, it felt personal. I felt like it was right to share, but I didn’t mean for it to come across negatively.”

He continued, emphasizing that he respects his American opponents: “When I played with Patrick and Xander, we’ve always battled a few times, and they’ve always been great competitors. There’s always been good sportsmanship between us. This was something that happened outside the ropes, and I now realize there was a misunderstanding on my part.”

Kim further explained that his comments were made in the heat of the moment and that he regretted how they may have been perceived. “I went to them and said, ‘I didn’t mean it that way. I apologize if it came out wrongly.’ If it affected them negatively, I truly apologize. That wasn’t my intention.”

Schauffele, who was approached by Kim on Sunday, chose not to comment on their conversation.

Despite the brief tension, Kim’s actions demonstrated a desire to mend relations, ensuring that the focus remained on the competition’s spirit rather than off-course misunderstandings. The U.S. team ultimately secured a decisive victory, but Kim’s apology showcased his commitment to good sportsmanship and respect for his fellow competitors.