Professional golfer Ian Poulter has faced a barrage of criticism after tweeting that Rory McIlroy deserved to win BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2014 more than fellow Stevenage star Lewis Hamilton.
After the result was announced yesterday evening, which saw Formula 1 star Hamilton come out on top with the world number one golfer McIlroy finishing second, Poulter said: “Absolutely ridiculous that @McIlroyRory has not won Sports Personality 2014. Huge respect to @LewisHamilton but come on.”
The two-time World Golf Championship winner and former Barclay School pupil also tweeted: “@BBCSPOTY has turned into a complete joke. It’s such a great shame. Huge congrats to @LewisHamilton, but he had one person to beat all year.”
This led to many people stating that Stevenage-born Hamilton, who won his second Formula 1 world title last month, deserved it more.
Lee Michael tweeted back: “All he did was hit a tiny ball around. Grow up you child. Stropping because your friend lost.”
Laura Leslie said: “I didn’t have you down as the bitter type Ian. People prefer Lewis. Get over it.”
However some members of the public did jump to his defence.
Paul Gibbs said: “Controversial statement Mr Poulter but totally agree.”
In response Poulter tweeted: “Lot of angry people on my time line... Unfortunately as long as SPOTY continues to be a public vote then this will continue to happen!”
He added: “Ok everyone. You voted, I disagree, I think we are all over it. Hahahahaha we all have opinions. I congratulated @LewisHamilton either way.
“I must say I’m very sorry for having an opinion.”
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