Spanish golf star Sergio Garcia is apologizing following a joke he cracked at rival Tiger Woods' expense Tuesday that many interpreted as racist.
At the European Tour's Players' Awards dinner, Garcia was asked by The Golf Channel if he would have Woods over for dinner during the U.S. Open.
"We will have him round every night," Garcia responded to the obvious joke question, according to The Guardian. "We will serve fried chicken."
Some guests were stunned by the quip. An unnamed "leading Tour professional," reportedly remarked to a nearby journalist, "You didn't hear that."
Of course, Ewan Murray of The Guardian did hear it.
The exchange quickly was picked up by various media outlets, and Garcia issued an apology via the European Tour that was obtained by The AP.
"I apologize for any offense that may have been caused by my comment on stage during the European Tour Players' Awards dinner," he said.
"I answered a question that was clearly made towards me as a joke with a silly remark, but in no way was the comment meant in a racist manner."
The on-and-off rivalry heated up during the The Players Championship, where Garcia accused Woods of distracting him during the third round.
Both golfers exchanged barbs through the media during the tournament at TPC Sawgrass - won by Woods, of course - and in the weeks since.
Tiger, who has 14 career major championship's to Sergio's none, said he did nothing wrong then, but that it's never a surprise Garcia is complaining.
"He called me a whiner. He's probably right," Garcia responded. "But that's also probably the first thing he's told you guys that's true in 15 years."
"I know what he's like. You guys are finding out."
Golf feuds. Feel the excitement!!!
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