Tommy Fleetwood has pledged to do everything in his power to support the community in Southport following the shocking knife attack and the subsequent rioting that has affected his hometown.
Fleetwood was traveling with his putting coach and fellow Southport local, Phil Kenyon, to represent Team GB at the Olympic Games when they learned about multiple stabbings at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for children. Unfortunately, three children have lost their lives as a result of this incident. Following this tragedy, violent disturbances erupted in the Merseyside town on Tuesday evening, leading to the serious injury of 39 police officers.
“When one of us is hurt, it feels like we all are,” Fleetwood commented. “That’s what home means. Everyone is feeling this pain, especially the families affected, and that is our priority.
“We all pursue our dreams, whatever they may be, and it’s a significant aspect of life, but for those children who will not have that opportunity and for the families who must cope with this loss, it brings everything into sharper focus.
“Incidents like this occur far more frequently than we would like. You don’t expect them to happen in a small town like Southport, but it is truly disheartening. My first thoughts are always with the families who have faced such tragic losses and who will have to endure the aftermath; it’s simply unfair.”
Fleetwood’s demeanor and tone on Wednesday clearly indicated that he recognizes the insignificance of his sporting endeavors in France amid such events. However, he has the opportunity to positively highlight Southport by aiming for gold for Team GB at Le Golf National.
“I’m sure it wouldn’t change anything for anyone, but it would be a nice thought, a little something to give back to the town,” the 33-year-old remarked. “Regardless of a gold medal, we will all strive to support those affected and unite in restoring the town, making it a better place. My dad, relatives, and friends still live there; thankfully, none of them were affected, but I maintain very strong ties with the community.”
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Fleetwood first became aware of the developments while with Kenyon. “I was in the car with Phil, who has a parents’ group chat for school or something, and we saw messages coming through,” Fleetwood recounted. “At first, we were a bit confused and didn’t fully understand what was happening until we started seeing news reports begin to appear.
“When it occurs, it takes a little while to process, and then more information starts to unfold. It’s awful. It’s a tragic situation for the town and everyone, but especially for those directly affected; it’s just horrific.”
Competing in his second Olympics, Fleetwood joins Matt Fitzpatrick under the Team GB banner. The marquee group for the opening round on Thursday at the 2018 Ryder Cup venue features Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Ludvig Åberg.
The USA team has a clear advantage due to their representation in the world rankings, allowing them four spots in the Olympic field, while every other country has just two. Alongside Scheffler are Xander Schauffele, Wyndham Clark, and Collin Morikawa for the USA.
The women’s event will commence next Wednesday at the same venue.
