‘It was totally out of character’: Erik van Rooyen issues apology for PGA Championship outburst

erik van rooyen swings

Erik van Rooyen issued an apology statement on Twitter after his tee-marker-smashing outburst at last week's PGA Championship.

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Erik van Rooyen has issued an apology on Twitter for his outburst at last week’s PGA Championship. The 31-year-old lashed out on the 17th hole at the Ocean Course during the second round, bashing a tee marker and breaking his club after his shot found the water.

“Hey everyone, I’ve been quiet on here whilst I’ve done some reflecting,” van Rooyen said in a statement. “My actions at the PGA Championship were unacceptable. I would like to apologise to my team, my sponsors, the PGA of America and the fans for letting you and myself down.”

Van Rooyen missed the cut at the PGA, posting 72-81 over the first two rounds. It marked his first career missed cut in a major championship.

“It was totally out of character for me, and it should not have happened,” he continued. “I will learn from this and do better.”

Zephyr Melton

Golf.com Editor

Zephyr Melton is an assistant editor for GOLF.com where he spends his days blogging, producing and editing. Prior to joining the team at GOLF, he attended the University of Texas followed by stops with the Texas Golf Association, Team USA, the Green Bay Packers and the PGA Tour. He assists on all things instruction and covers amateur and women’s golf. He can be reached at zephyr_melton@golf.com.