Ralph Lauren Ends Sponsorship with Justin Thomas After Homophobic Slur Controversy

Fashion brand Ralph Lauren has ended its sponsorship deal with professional golfer Justin Thomas following his use of a homophobic slur during a tournament. The incident occurred after Thomas missed a putt, and his outburst was caught on a live broadcast, drawing widespread criticism.

In a statement, Ralph Lauren emphasized its commitment to inclusion and respect, explaining that the language used by Thomas did not align with the company’s values. The brand acknowledged Thomas’s apology but stated that they could no longer continue their partnership with him.

Thomas, one of golf’s top players, has since apologized publicly for the incident. He expressed regret for his words, calling his behavior “inexcusable” and pledging to learn from the situation. His actions, however, have already cost him a significant endorsement.

This is not the first time a professional athlete has faced severe consequences for inappropriate language. The move by Ralph Lauren underscores the growing importance of accountability in sports, especially concerning issues of diversity and respect.