Professional golfer Patrick Cantlay recently shared a glimpse into his visit to Tiger Woods’ home after winning the Player of the Year award in 2021. Walking through Woods’ basement, Cantlay noticed 11 Jack Nicklaus bronze trophies lined up – a testament to Woods’ nine Player of the Year wins from 1999-2009. Cantlay humorously remarked that he was catching up, to which Woods responded with a reality check: “You got a lot of work to do.”
Despite Cantlay’s impressive golf achievements, including eight PGA victories, a FedEx Cup Championship, and success in team events like the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup, he recently disclosed meeting with representatives from LIV Golf. However, he firmly stated his commitment to the PGA Tour, expressing no intention of joining LIV Golf, a new golf league.
Cantlay acknowledged that the decision to join a league like LIV Golf is personal, influenced by individual values and priorities. Despite rumors and offers, he emphasized his loyalty to the PGA Tour. Notably, he declined the most recent offer in the same meeting where his management team presented it to him.
However, Cantlay’s reputation faced challenges when allegations emerged about his desire for compensation for Ryder Cup participation. Reports suggested he didn’t wear his U.S. Ryder Cup hat during the tournament due to the belief that players should be compensated. Cantlay vehemently denied these claims, asserting that he declined offers both before and after serving on the PGA Tour policy board in 2023.
Navigating through the intricacies of professional golf and potential league affiliations, Cantlay remains focused on his commitment to the PGA Tour, despite the occasional controversy surrounding his decisions and alleged financial preferences related to team events.