On removing your head gear..................?

Question

I don't know if it is only me, but I can't help notice that Vijay Singh never removes his cap at the end of his 18 hole round of golf when he shakes hands with the other players and caddies. Why it that? Seems to be disrespectful. I am not aware of anyone else who does this.

Answer 1

Actually a lot of guys do not remove them if you notice, but seems they all do during the British Open and some of the other majors.

  It did use to be etiquette, and I think the Europeans still seem to be more traditional in that aspect than we are.  It is nice to see, since it is supposed to be a gentleman's game.

  There are some rude players out there that is for sure, Jim Furyk comes to mind immediately.  I have a friend who followed him at the tournament in Hawaii and now completely dislikes him becasue of his blatant rudeness.

Answer 2

It can be dangerous.  Played with a chum a couple of years ago.  After 18 he putted out, grabbed the ball from the cup and replaced the flag.  He forgot that he was holding the putter in his left hand, blade up and went to remove his hat before the traditional handshake.  Poor guy nearly knocked himself silly!!!!!  I couldn't shake with him for a few minutes until I stopped hysterically rolling around the green.   I think he's still got a nick in his forehead.

Answer 3

i understand where you're coming from.  even during my friendly games during the weekends i always remove my hat on the 18th to shake the other players' hands and my dad made me do it since i was about 10 years old.  however, you must take into consideration that golf is one of the most international sports in the world and Vijay is from a very unique area.  sometimes customs are simply different.  i will personally vouch for Vijay's politeness as he is one the most well liked players on the tour.  i was about 12 years old and went with my dad to the Colonial in Ft. Worth.  i waited by the practice green hoping to get autographs and saw many less famous players walk right off the green without even acknowledging the kids waiting for autographs.  Vijay walked off the green and right up to the ropes and signed autographs and talked to the fans for well over ten minutes and i will tell you that it made my day.  i agree that golf is a game of etiquette and politeness but i will also tell you that there are more important things to consider when looking at the morals of a golfer.  if you want to see a golfer that sorely needs a lesson in this look no further than rory sabbittini