'Birdman' Interrupts Webb Simpson Interview After US Open Win
Pro golfer Webb Simpson's first major PGA Tour victory was nearly overshadowed Sunday when a fan, referred to by spectators as the "Birdman," interrupted his trophy presentation by making bird-like sounds -- to the delight of observers more accustomed to fans of the sport being a bit mundane.
Simpson, just presented with the U.S. Open trophy, was asked a question by NBC reporter Bob Costas on his single-stroke victory, but as he began to respond a man dressed in red, white and blue and sporting mohawk-styled knit hat walked before the cameras and started squawking like a bird.
The "Birdman" interruption can be seen in the video below, which also shows Simpson being a good sport about the stunt. USGA executive director Mike Davis is also seen in the clip pulling the man, believed to British, out of view. Photographers captured police officers taking the unidentified heckler away in handcuffs.
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Those watching the U.S. Open Sunday took to Twitter to share reaction.
"Classic! Birdman interrupts @webbsimpson1 & Bob Costas at #USGA #USOpen ..rude but hilarious at the same time," tweeted Corinna Hoffman (@CorinnaHoffman). Hoffman also uploaded an image of the scene, as shown above.
The Thirsty Golfer (@beer4golf) tweeted, "Cheers to Web Simpson! & Cheers to the drunk Brit / Birdman!"
Simpson also posted an image of the interruption on his Twitter account Monday morning, calling the "Birdman" his "new friend." The image was re-tweeted nealry 1,500 times.
The 26-year-old North Carolina native also tweeted his thanks to God for grace, writing: "Thanks to everyone for the support and encouragement. Humbled to win the US Open!! Thankful to God for His grace in my life."
Simpson out-shined Bubba Watson, a fellow Christian who also won his first PGA Tour event earlier this year, Tiger Woods and numerous other big names at the golf event.
The 112th U.S. Open was held at The Olympic Club on June 16 in San Francisco.
