U.S. Ryder Cup appoints Timberlake ambassador
For the first time in team history, the U.S. Ryder Cup team will have a celebrity ambassador — six-time Grammy winner Justin Timberlake — when the team gathers for the 39th Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club this fall.
In making the announcement Wednesday, officials for the PGA of America also outlined Timberlake’s role, saying he will take part in the Ryder Cup Gala on Sept. 26 at the Akoo Theatre in Rosemont, as well as Ryder Cup Opening Ceremonies on Sept. 27 at Medinah Country Club.
The Ryder Cup will take place Sept. 25-30 at the historic course.
“The Ryder Cup continues to generate incredible excitement as September approaches, and Justin Timberlake’s involvement is an added bonus for one of the most highly anticipated sporting events in the world,” said PGA of America President Allen Wronowski. “The Ryder Cup is truly a global event, and Justin (Timberlake) is a household name internationally. As someone who is passionate about golf, he’s the perfect fit to be a Team Ambassador, and The PGA of America is proud to have his support for the 2012 Ryder Cup.”
U.S. Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III also said he was excited about Timberlake’s role.
“He’s a true champion for our sport, and I’ve been very impressed with his commitment to growing golf and sharing his passion with others,” Love said. “He genuinely loves the game. I know golf fans are going to embrace his participation and share in his excitement for the Ryder Cup.”
Timberlake said he was thrilled to have the opportunity to experience the Ryder Cup firsthand and lend his support to the U.S. team.
“Golf has been a lifelong passion of mine whether I’m out playing the game, working on the course at Mirimichi or sharing my love for the sport with others,” Timberlake said. “There is no greater stage for the sport than the Ryder Cup, and I’m proud to be an Ambassador for the U.S. Ryder Cup team and take part in such a time-honored event. It’s going to be a special week for golf fans around the world, me the most.”