Golfer Bae Sang Moon Is The Only Korean Chosen To Play In The Presidents Cup’s International Lineup In Incheon
Golfer Bae Sang Moon was one of the captain's picks to play for the Presidents Cup next month in Incheon City, making him the only South Korean golfer chosen to join the international lineup.
Bae and Australian Steven Bowditch were added to the international lineup, as announced by US team captain Jay Haas and international team captain Nick Price of Zimbabwe during a press conference Wednesday.
The Presidents Cup first played on September 1994. For its 11th year, the event was slated on October 8 to 11 and it would be the first time it would take place in Asia, ESPN noted on Wednesday.
Based on the world rankings, ten golfers were chosen to join the roster of the International Team who would compete with the roster of US Team, The Chosunilbo reported on Friday.
Aside from being the 19th highest-ranked golfer, Bae's titles during the 2013 and 2014 Shinhan Donghae Open were considered on his qualification to play in the Presidents Cup.
"I am really happy now. I'd like to thank Captain Price for selecting me to represent the International Team," said Bae, according to a report by The Korea Times on Tuesday. "Actually, I am really in a tough situation right now. I just want to try to focus on my game and on the Presidents Cup. It's going to be in my home country, and I will do my best."
Despite the legal conflict involving the two-time PGA Tour winner, Price was still confident that Bae would be able to play next month in the Presidents Cup.
Last July, a South Korean court has ruled that the 29-year-old golfer should complete his military service for two years - compulsory for all Korean men ages of 18-35 who are physically fit.
"I have been assured that it should not be a problem," said Price. "As far I understand they will speak to the government but I'm pretty sure he'll be cleared to play."
Price also revealed that he chose Bae to join the International Team because of his performance and experience.
"I chose (Bae) because he has played pretty well the last couple of weeks but also because he's won on the golf course. He loves the golf course, and it's very important to have someone on the team that the Korean fans and media could pull for. But it was a difficult decision."