Thursday 25 September 2014 14:13, UK
USA Ryder Cup player Rickie Fowler says he is surprised his haircut has caused such a stir ahead of this week’s match at Gleneagles.
And Fowler has ridiculed the idea that having the letters ‘USA’ shaved into the side of his head might give the match an overly jingoistic edge.
“It's gone a bit crazier than I expected,” said the 25-year-old Fowler, who will be playing in the Ryder Cup for the second time this week.
“I just thought I would do it for a little team spirit and I knew the guys on the team would like it. It’s been fun to see the reaction of the fans, on social media, guys on the European squad and caddies over there, as well. It's been pretty fun.
"I've seen pictures of people back home getting a similar haircut. I've seen a few pictures a couple of people posted on Instagram.
"And I saw one guy that got an 'EU' on the side of his head, so it works both ways, for Europe or the US.
"It's just cool to see a lot of people coming together and kind of jumping on with the support of the US Team."
Asked about accusations of brashness prompted by the trim, Fowler replied: “I'm just myself. I'm not trying to be anyone else, I'm not trying to fit in any particular way.
“I'm not trying to hurt anyone's feelings or turn anyone the wrong way. Just proud to be from the USA and be over here playing.
“If people take it the wrong way, it's too bad for them. It's unfortunate.
I just thought I would do it for a little team spirit and I knew the guys on the team would like it. It’s been fun to see the reaction of the fans, on social media, guys on the European squad and caddies over there, as well. It's been pretty fun.
“You've got to show some patriotism and spirit for your country. Like I say, I'm excited and it's going to be a fun week.”
Europe have dominated the Ryder Cup recently, prompting the suggestion they care more about the event than the Americans.
But Fowler said: “With Europe winning quite a bit more than we have, it's been easier for them.
“I feel like they've come together and they're enjoying the ride of that momentum.
“But we’ve got a team that's very refreshed and new. I know we'd love to take the Cup back home.
“We've also got a couple of guys that have played quite a few (Ryder Cups). But they are motivated to jump on and get this thing turned around.”
