The Ryder Cup, the biennial golf tournament between Europe and the United States, ended on Friday with a decisive victory for the European team. But the event was not without controversy, as a caddy’s gesture sparked a heated exchange between two players.
LaCava’s salute
The caddy in question was Joe LaCava, who works for American golfer Patrick Cantlay. Cantlay was the only member of the US team who did not wear a team-branded baseball cap during the tournament, reportedly as a protest over not being paid to play. This drew the attention of the European fans, who waved their hats at him whenever he made a shot.
On Saturday night, after Cantlay sank a big putt, LaCava took off his own hat and saluted the saluting fans. So did the rest of the American team. But in doing so, LaCava also wandered into the vicinity of Rory McIlroy’s putting line and stood there. McIlroy, who was playing for Europe, tried to stare him down. That did not work. He shouted at LaCava to move away. LaCava did so, but said something over his shoulder. More smoldering looks followed.
McIlroy’s reaction
McIlroy later said that he was annoyed by LaCava’s behavior, which he considered disrespectful and unsportsmanlike. He said that he had no problem with Cantlay not wearing a hat, but he did not appreciate LaCava standing in his line and mocking the fans.
“I think it’s just a bit of gamesmanship, trying to get under my skin,” McIlroy said. “But it didn’t work. I actually played better after that.”
McIlroy also said that he had a good relationship with LaCava, who used to caddie for his friend Tiger Woods. He said that he understood that LaCava was trying to support his player, but he went too far.
“I don’t mind a bit of banter, but there’s a line,” McIlroy said. “And I think he crossed it.”
Cantlay’s defense
Cantlay, on the other hand, defended his caddy and denied that he was protesting over money. He said that the hat he was given did not fit him well, and that he preferred to play without one.
“Everybody knows that,” Cantlay said. “It’s not a big deal.”
He also said that he did not notice LaCava’s salute or his confrontation with McIlroy. He said that he was focused on his own game, and that he did not care what the fans or the media thought.
“I’m here to play golf and win points for my team,” Cantlay said. “That’s all that matters to me.”
He also praised LaCava for being a loyal and experienced caddy, who helped him win several tournaments in his career.
“Joe is a great guy and a great caddy,” Cantlay said. “He knows what he’s doing out there.”
The aftermath
Despite the drama, the Ryder Cup ended with a clear result: Europe won by 18½ points to 9½ points, their largest margin of victory since 2006. McIlroy contributed four points to his team, while Cantlay scored three points for his team.
The two players shook hands after their match on Sunday, and appeared to have put their differences behind them. They also exchanged compliments on their performances.
“He played great,” McIlroy said of Cantlay. “He’s one of the best players in the world right now.”
“He’s a class act,” Cantlay said of McIlroy. “He’s always been one of my favorite players to watch.”
LaCava also congratulated McIlroy on his win, and apologized for any offense he may have caused.
“I’m sorry if I upset you,” LaCava said. “I was just trying to have some fun.”
McIlroy accepted his apology, and said that he respected him as a caddy and a person.
“It’s all good,” McIlroy said. “No hard feelings.”
