Golf chief hits back at multiple PGA Tour winner for 'disrespectful' PGA Championship comment

The president of Quail Hollow Club has hit back at multiple PGA Tour winner Hunter Mahan. 

Mahan caused a bit of a brouhaha before the first round of the PGA Championship began on Thursday. 

The former U.S. Ryder Cupper compared host venue for the second men's major of the year to a Kardashian. 

Mahan, now 42, told the Athletic: "I guess I would say Quail Hollow is like a Kardashian. It's very modern, beautiful and well-kept. But it lacks a soul or character."

Johhny Harris, the president of North Carolina venue, only had a few words for Mahan. 

"Tell me who that is?" he asked Axios. When reminded who Mahan was, he chided: "I don't know the last time he was here."

Mahan last played the PGA Championship in 2017. That year, the major was also held at Quail Hollow and he missed the cut. 

The U.S. golfer has not played at Quail Hollow since 2021. 

Who is Hunter Mahan?

Mahan has now retired from playing professional golf. 

He turned professional in 2003 and had a distinguished career on the PGA Tour, winning on six occasions. 

Mahan also won twice on the European Tour. 

His best finish in a major championship arrived in 2013 when he shared fourth place at the U.S. Open. 

His highest world ranking was four (2012) and he represented the U.S. Ryder Cup team in 2008, 2010 and 2014. 

Hunter Mahan's most memorable moment

Mahan was played in the final match of the Sunday singles at the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor. 

Graeme McDowell triumphed 3&1 to help Europe win back the Ryder Cup. 

During the post-match press conference, Mahan was visibly distraught and struggled to contain his emotions. 

He attempted to express his feelings about the loss and his pride in being part of the U.S. team but was overcome with emotion and broke down in tears. 

Phil Mickelson grabbed the mic as Mahan sobbed.