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Justin Thomas’ hot microphone moment hit him in the wallet.
Ralph Lauren Corp. said on Friday it was dropping one of the best golfers after hearing a homophobic failure during a tournament in Hawaii last weekend. Ralph Lauren has been a sponsor of Thomas since becoming a pro. He was the no. 1 golfer in the world and won a major at 24.
“We believe in the dignity of all people, regardless of age, race, gender identity, ethnicity, political affiliation or sexual orientation,” the company said in a statement. ‘As we reflect on the responsibility we have towards all our stakeholders, we have decided to extend our sponsorship of mr. Thomas to strike.
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“While we acknowledge that he has apologized and acknowledged the seriousness of his words, he is a paid ambassador of our brand, and his actions are contrary to the inclusive culture we want to maintain.”
Thomas is heard mumbling the f-word slurps on the fourth hole after missing a chance on equal points and settling for a thug during the third round of the Sentry Open.
“It’s inexcusable. I apologize first, ” he told reporters after the round. “I mean, there’s no excuse. I’m an adult. I’m a grown man, there’s absolutely no reason for me to say such a thing. ‘
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Thomas added: “It’s awful. I mean, I’m very shy, it’s not who I am, it’s not the kind of person I am or something I do, but I did it unfortunately and I have to own it and I am very apologetic. ‘
Thomas, one of the world’s leading golfers on the PGA Tour, said he only realized it after the round.
“I’m speechless … I found out when I finished on the golf course or when I finished my round. I mean, it’s bad. There’s no other way to put it,” he said.
“I have to do better, I have to be better, it’s definitely a learning experience, but yes, I just want to apologize to everyone and everyone I offended, and I’ll be better therefore.”
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Ralph Lauren said he hopes Thomas “will do the hard and necessary work to work with us again – to truly investigate, learn, grow and ultimately use this platform to promote inclusion.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.