After Bryson DeChambeau ’s pairing troubles, the spotlight now once again turns to Patrick Cantlay — this time for a controversy that refuses to die: the Ryder Cup “hat-gate.”

During the 2023 Ryder Cup, Cantlay was one of the few U.S. players who chose not to wear a hat, sparking rumors that he was protesting the lack of compensation. His supposed remark, “I’ll wear a hat when I’m paid to be here like he is,” still lingers in fans’ minds. Although Cantlay has repeatedly denied those claims and explained it was a fit issue, many remain unconvinced.

Fast forward to 2025: Cantlay showed up to his pre-tournament press conference wearing a USA hat. When asked if it carried a message, he doubled down on his explanation.

“No, not at all. Like I’ve said a million times, the hat didn’t fit

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