In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through the world of professional golf, reigning US Open champion Matthew Callahan has publicly apologized for his outburst during the final round of the US PGA Championship held at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
Callahan, who was among the frontrunners heading into Sunday’s final round, lost his composure after a string of errant shots and missed putts on the back nine dashed his chances of securing a second major title. The 29-year-old golfer was seen slamming his putter into the turf on the 16th green and later hurling his glove into the crowd in a fit of frustration.
Television cameras caught the entire incident, prompting immediate reactions from fans, commentators, and fellow players. The tantrum overshadowed what was otherwise a thrilling final round, with American Lucas Harmon eventually clinching his maiden major championship with a two-stroke victory.
In a statement issued Monday morning, Callahan expressed deep regret for his behavior.
“I want to sincerely apologize to my fans, fellow competitors, tournament officials, and everyone watching the PGA Championship,” Callahan said. “My actions on the course were unacceptable and do not reflect the respect I have for the game of golf or its traditions. I let the pressure get to me, and I reacted in a way I deeply regret.”
Callahan’s apology was accompanied by a video message posted to his official social media accounts, where he appeared visibly contrite.
“Golf has given me everything — from my earliest days with a club in hand to standing victorious at the US Open last year. I owe the game better than what I showed on Sunday.”
Tournament officials have not yet announced whether Callahan will face disciplinary action, but PGA of America spokesperson Lisa Carmichael stated that the incident is under review.
“We are aware of the events that took place during the final round and take matters of conduct seriously. Sportsmanship and professionalism are integral to the PGA Championship,” Carmichael said.
Callahan’s fellow professionals were mixed in their responses. Four-time major winner Brooks Koepka commented, “We’ve all been there. Emotions run high, especially in the heat of competition. But there’s a line, and it’s up to us as pros to stay behind it.”
Others, like rising star Tom Kim, were more critical. “There are kids watching. When you wear that US Open badge, you’re representing more than just yourself.”
Despite the controversy, Callahan remains one of golf’s brightest talents. Since his breakthrough victory at Pebble Beach last year, he has been ranked consistently in the top 10 and has notched several top-five finishes on the PGA Tour this season.
Golf analysts believe the incident may be a learning moment for Callahan, who has spoken openly in the past about the mental pressures of the sport.
“This game tests you in every way, mentally and emotionally,” said NBC Golf analyst Brandel Chamblee. “What we saw on Sunday was a man at his breaking point. What will matter most now is how he rebounds from this.”
Callahan is expected to compete next at the Memorial Tournament in Ohio in early June. All eyes will be on him—not just for his golf, but for how he carries himself moving forward.
While the tantrum cast a temporary shadow on the US PGA Championship, many in the sport are hopeful that Callahan’s apology and commitment to learning from the experience will ultimately reinforce golf’s values of humility and respect.
