US golf star undeterred by Bangkok protests

 

December 5, 2013 12:38 PM

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This handout photo taken and received from OneAsia on November 9, 2013 shows Rickie Fowler of the US playing a shot during the third round of the Australian PGA Championship at the RACV Royal Pines Resort golf club on Australia’s Gold Coast (AFP Photo/Khalid Redza)

Bangkok (AFP) - American golf star Rickie Fowler Thursday said he was ready to play in protest-hit Thailand next week but admitted he might have second thoughts if something "crazy" happens.

Fowler, one of the headliners at the December 12-15 Thailand Golf Championship near Bangkok, was speaking after several days of violent demonstrations rocked the Thai capital.

"I haven't caught too much on TV. I've heard a little bit of the news. I'm not too worried about it. I'm excited to come see Bangkok," he told journalists on a conference call.

"I've heard a lot of good things, and I trust that everyone with the tournament and everyone organising the event will look after us quite well and we'll be just fine."

Asked whether he had considered pulling out, Fowler said: "No, there's nothing yet. I'm sure, you know, if anything crazy were to happen, I may have a couple questions. But I know all the guys from the US are excited to come."

Anti-government protesters have been fighting street battles with police as political violence returns to Bangkok, three years after dozens died in a crackdown on mass rallies.

Barbed wire and barricades have sprung up around the city after protesters clashed with police, who fired tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets.

However, the $1 million Thailand Golf Championship will be played at the Amata Spring Country Club, outside Bangkok and well away from the protests.

Fowler said he was confident that visiting players, who also include Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Charl Schwartzel and Bubba Watson, would not face any problems.

"I haven't heard about any of the (security) arrangements, anything that's changed," said the 24-year-old.

"But I know the tournament will be there to look after us and make sure we're good to go when we land and get us into Bangkok and settled into the hotel and get ready for the week."

He added: "Bubba is one of my best friends on tour. I know he's excited about coming back. He was there last year and had a great time."

No comment was available from tournament organisers following requests from AFP.