• PGA Tour

We all know Steve isn't a racist - Adam Scott

ESPN staff
November 5, 2011
Adam Scott has defended Steve Williams © PA Photos
Enlarge

Adam Scott has defended his caddie Steve Williams against accusations he is a racist follow an ill-judged comment about his former employer, Tiger Woods.

Williams found himself in the middle of a media storm on Saturday at the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai, after comments he made at an informal Caddie of the Year awards - allegedly describing Woods as a "black arsehole" - came out in the British press.

Williams immediately released a statement apologising for his remarks while denying any racist intent, but that has done little to stem the tide of feeling against him.

Many expect Scott, who handed Williams his bag on a full time basis in July, to dispense of the New Zealander's services at the end of the tournament on Sunday - but Scott chose instead to defend his man after a third round of 69 kept him in the hunt for victory at Sheshan International.

"I think we all know that's not the case," Scott stated after his round, when asked if Williams was a racist. "He's put out a statement apologising and that should be the end of the matter."

When it was suggested to him that Williams should be sacked, he added: "I disagree with that. I think everything in that room last night was all in good spirits and for a bit of fun. I think it probably got taken out of that room in the wrong context.

"There was a lot of language used and it's just this (comment) that was reported. I don't really think that stuff has ever left the room before and this is probably a good reason why. I think it's all very unnecessary."

Scott has enjoyed an upturn in fortunes since Williams became his caddie, with the pair winning the WGC Bridgestone Invitational soon after agreeing a permanent arrangement. The Australian is due to play with Woods at next week's Australian Open, however, a potentially awkward scenario if Williams remains on his bag.

Woods, who had Williams on his bag for 12 years and 13 major wins, has yet to make a public comment on the matter, with his agent Mark Steinberg suggesting that one will not be forthcoming.

"I was with Tiger last night when he heard the news," Steinberg said. "We got multiple calls from people who sounded like they were leaving the caddie party.

"Tiger obviously wasn't there. He doesn't know exactly what was said. But if multiple reports - which all seem to be accurate - are true then it is sad it has come down to this.

"It's a regrettable comment and there's really nothing that Tiger can do or say. He's just going to move on."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices