How to celebrate in a team golf event
Early qualifiers for the Presidents Cup were the first to try on their Lacoste-provided team uniforms at a recent fitting and photo shoot in Atlanta. This kicked off raucous team banter and excited chatter months before they travel to Royal Melbourne to compete Dec. 12-15.
Matt Kuchar reminded everyone of his Ping-Pong prowess, and Adam Scott raved about Australia’s iconic meat pies. Louis Oosthuizen and Dustin Johnson shared what they’ll be streaming during the long flights—Oosthuizen bingeing “The Big Bang Theory” and DJ queueing up a sports documentary or crime show.
“We’re not a cheerleading team, we’re a golf team.”
Players tested the gear for size and playability, with simulated golf swings and even some fist pumps. When it comes to celebrations, golfers typically stick to fist pumps and high-fives. “In football they can actually do celebrations because the whole team gets involved,” said Brooks Koepka who is uncertain for the matches after aggravating a knee injury in October. “But [in golf], you’re literally just standing on a green by yourself, so you kind of look like an idiot.”
Webb Simpson said he’d be open to a choreographed celebration. Presidents Cup rookie Xander Schauffele could be convinced to try one but admits it might be cheesy. The rest of the team gave a resounding no. “We’re not a cheerleading team, we’re a golf team,” Justin Thomas said.
The International team, on the other hand, has a devoted cheer squad to lead the chants and celebrations at Royal Melbourne. “The Fanatics will be there,” Adam Scott said of the zealous, yellowshirt-wearing Australian fan group. “They always come up with something pretty witty and entertaining.”