The fashion firm Ralph Lauren ended his patronage of the american golfer Justin thomas after the world ranking number 3 muttered a homophobic insult after missing a putt.
Thomas, 27, missed a short putt on hole 4 of the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii last Saturday. As he walked, he muttered the insult – ‘fagot’, which could be translated as ‘fagot’ – and which was picked up by the microphones of the event.
The American apologized for the insult shortly after it was collected. “First of all, I apologize. I am an adult. I am a adult man, there is absolutely no reason for me to say something like that. Is terrible. I’m very ashamed. It’s not who I am, it’s not the type of person I am, “Thomas was honest.
Ralph Lauren had sponsored Thomas since 2013, when he became golfer professional. “We are disappointed by language Mr. Thomas’s recent report, which is totally inconsistent with our values, “the company said in a statement.
“While we recognize that it has sorry and recognizes the severity of his words, it is a ambassador paid for by our brand and its actions conflict with the inclusive culture we strive to uphold, “he added.
Ralph Lauren admitted that he would consider resuming his sponsorship of Thomas in the future if he pledged to “learn, grow and ultimately use his platform to promote inclusion.”
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