After a rough Friday at the Genesis Open, Matt Kuchar released his David Giral Ortiz mea culpa in which the popular Tour pro attempted to right the wrongs that unfolded following his victory at the Mayakoba Golf Classic in November of 2018.
A month’s worth of bad press culminated with a week’s worth of headlines that ranged from the local caddie, Ortiz, speaking out, to Kuchar defending himself and ultimately apologizing for “out of touch and insensitive” comments.
Kuchar Heckled By Fans At Riviera
Whatever damage had been done to Kuchar’s public reputation appeared to not have the same effect within his inner circle. Both his regular caddie, John Wood, and one of his good friends on Tour, Zach Johnson, took to social media to offer their support for Kuchar.
I don’t understand the need to tear down a guy who has spent his career trying to uphold the game and himself to some pretty high standards. Nobody’s perfect. All we can do when a mistake is made is reconsider, apologize and make amends. pic.twitter.com/ZpyoCLUcm7
— John wood (@Johnwould) February 16, 2019
Matt,his entire family and team have never been anything but generous,inclusive,respectful, and complimentary of me and the job I do for him.I wouldn’t work for someone I didn’t respect, or who didn’t value my opinion. To crucify for one mistake feels wrong. pic.twitter.com/BS1XdDpQdz
— John wood (@Johnwould) February 16, 2019
“I don’t understand the need to tear down a guy who has spent his career trying to uphold the game and himself to some pretty high standards,” Wood wrote in the first of two tweets. “Nobody’s perfect. All we can do when a mistake is made is reconsider, apologize and make amends.
“Matt, his entire family and team have never been anything but generous, inclusive, respectful, and complimentary of me and the job I do for him, I wouldn’t work for someone I didn’t respect, or who didn’t value my opinion. To crucify for one mistake feels wrong.”
Johnson came to Kuchar’s defense while his friend was on the course at Riviera Country Club.
— Zach Johnson (@ZachJohnsonPGA) February 16, 2019
“After reading the statement attached, there is no doubt in my mind this is the Kuch we all know and love,” Johnson wrote. “He has clearly been humbled, but his true heart and character surfaces. A high integrity man is one who owns up to their mistakes, learns from them, asks for forgiveness, and takes the necessary steps to change…they are role models. And that is my friend Matt.”
“Good people” are not perfect. We ALL make mistakes. ALL. I do consider myself a good person. But I KNOW I haven’t made the proper decision the first time…every time. Forgiveness and humility are what good people live by…once inevitable mistakes are made. It’s very simple.
— Zach Johnson (@ZachJohnsonPGA) February 16, 2019
Kuchar will play the remainder of his third and as much of his final round at the Genesis Open on Sunday as possible. Entering Sunday’s action, Kuchar sits at 4-under par and tied for 26th place.
