Golf star sets record again………
Abraham Ancer has revisited his highly scrutinized remarks directed at Tiger Woods during the 2019 Presidents Cup, shedding light on the true intent behind his comments nearly five years later.
Representing the International team in Australia during the 2019 edition of the matchplay event, Ancer found himself under the spotlight when asked which Team USA member he’d like to face in the Sunday singles. Singling out the iconic Tiger Woods, he stated, “I would like to play against Tiger (Woods). But the truth is that our objective is to do everything we can to win. Winning a match in the singles would be very special, so we need to try to get the cup.”
Ancer’s response sparked immediate attention, seemingly pitting him against the legendary Woods. Their anticipated showdown indeed materialized at Royal Melbourne, with Woods clinching a decisive 3&2 victory over his Mexican counterpart.
In the aftermath, Woods, true to his competitive nature, quipped, “Abe wanted it, he got it.” However, nearly half a decade later, Ancer reflected on his on-course rivalry with Woods, emphasizing that his words were not intended arrogantly.
Recalling the aftermath, Ancer shared, “I get all these tweets, ‘Abraham Ancer wants Tiger’. That is what it said. I was like ‘well that is not what I said but whatever’.” He continued, “I got all of these people sending me texts saying ‘who do you think you are? challenging Tiger?'”
Ancer clarified that the situation unfolded differently from what was portrayed, attributing the media frenzy to misinterpretation. He explained, “All of that happens then Ernie [Els] throws my name out first, Tiger being a captain he then says ‘alright I’m going to go first’.”
Reflecting on the match itself, Ancer commended both players’ performances, acknowledging Woods’ impeccable putting. Despite the outcome, Ancer highlighted the honor and learning experience of facing his idol on the course.
Addressing his initial comments, Ancer emphasized, “When they asked me that at Mayakoba first of all, that question was in Spanish, so the tone when I said it, it was never like cocky or challenging or anything like that.” He underscored that the opportunity to compete against Woods was a remarkable experience, regardless of the result.
In revisiting the episode, Ancer aimed to provide clarity and dispel any misconceptions surrounding his remarks, emphasizing his respect and admiration for Woods as a golfing icon.