Collin Morikawa Fires Back at Reporter Over Caddie Story at Rocket Classic

In a heated exchange at a press conference before the Rocket Classic, two-time major champion Collin Morikawa didn’t hold back when addressing a reporter over a story that left a sour taste in his mouth. The 28-year-old golfer took issue with how his recent caddie change was portrayed by Golfweek’s Adam Schupak, particularly a quote that Morikawa felt painted him in a negative light.

The article in question included a comment from Morikawa asking the reporter to wait for his formal press conference while he was with his pro-am partners. To Morikawa, this context was critical—those partners, he emphasized, are vital to the community and the event itself, deserving his full attention. "Don’t put me down like that," he told Schupak, frustrated by the implication that he was brushing off the media by asking them to wait a couple of hours.

Schupak defended his writing, suggesting he was giving Morikawa credit for prioritizing his pro-am partners. But Morikawa wasn’t buying it, pointing out that readers could easily misinterpret the tone. "We can all read it very differently," he said, making it clear he wasn’t dictating how journalists should do their jobs but wanted fairness in how his words were framed.

Following the exchange, Schupak updated his story, removing the original quote and replacing it with a new one. This isn’t the first time Morikawa has clashed with the media this season—his candid remarks at The Masters also stirred the pot. Meanwhile, on the green at the Detroit Golf Club, Morikawa sits tied for 35th at three-under par, while Min Woo Lee leads after a stellar nine-under par first round.

Morikawa’s passion for the game and respect for those who support it shone through, even in a tense moment. It’s a reminder that behind every swing and scorecard, there’s a human element that deserves as much attention as the leaderboard.