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Thompson backs Curry’s pro golf debut

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HONG KONG: Klay Thompson said he was “proud” of Stephen Curry after his Golden State Warriors team-mate agreed to play a professional golf tournament, causing a stir among golf pros.


Thompson said the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player could finish top-20 after he accepted an invite to play the second-tier Web.com Tour’s Ellie Mae Classic in August.


“It’s really cool to see Steph playing on the Web.com tour,” Thompson said during a visit to the Mission Hills golf complex in southern China.


“I know he takes golf so seriously, it’s only second to basketball for him as an athlete. I hope he does really well.”


“I think he can do great, maybe finish top 20. I don’t know if he can win it because he’s playing against some of the best players in the world, but I’m rooting for him.”


Some golfers voiced concern that Curry was taking a spot away from a professional player, although others including Justin Thomas and Jason Dufner tweeted their support.


“I’m just proud of him because he loves golf and he’s going to do great,” Thompson said. “He probably could have been a professional if he chose that path instead of basketball, so it’s cool to see him living out his dream.”


Curry will compete August 3-6 at the Web.com Tour’s Ellie Mae Classic in suburban San Francisco, playing as an amateur on a sponsor exemption.


“People asking why I’m playing. Unexpected invite & Always a dream 2 play golf w/ the pros. WebDotComTour has so much talent it’s unreal,” Curry tweeted about playing.


“Obviously want to play well & see how I handle tournament golf. No expectations except keep ball out of the gallery and not go Happy Gilmore.”


The event benefits the Warriors’ charity foundation.


“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to play with the pros, not only to be able to compete against some of the best golfers in the world,” Curry, who has a handicap of 2.2, said.


“Golf has always been a passion of mine and it’s a dream come true to get the chance to play inside the ropes amongst the pros.”


Curry, 29, has played for the Warriors since 2009. — AFP


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