The Open has seen its fair share of dramatic moments, but none as lighthearted as Argentine golfer Mateo Pulcini's celebration after making a long birdie putt on the 18th hole at Royal Birkdale.
Pulcini, the only Argentine in the field, got his tournament underway on Thursday despite a few light-hearted boos from English fans following Argentina's semi-final win over England in the World Cup.
However, the 25-year-old amateur took to the jeers in good spirit and got his revenge on the home fans when he drained a long-range putt, initially greeted by cheers from the fans behind the green.
Pulcini swiftly cupped both hands to his ears to replicate Enzo Fernandez's goal celebration during the 2-1 win for his nation on Wednesday evening, much to the amusement of BBC commentator Andrew Cotter.
Pulcini later admitted he watched the entire semi-final contest despite his early tee-time, and said the celebration came 'straight to his mind' as his ball fell into the hole.
“I didn't want to do anything like trying to make fun of the match that you guys lost because the tournament here has been unbelievable,” he said.
Pulcini currently sits T131 at The Open, with Sungjae Im and Englishman Dan Brown setting the early pace after their rounds of four under par.
Pulcini hopes to recover from his opening-round 75 to make the weekend at The Open, but will remain at Birkdale regardless, even with Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday.
“It was a great game,” he said of Argentina's win over England. “At the beginning it was like England was having a good game. But once England scored the goal, Argentina did the same thing they did in the last match. England started defending, but you cannot defend against Messi. He's unbelievable.”
On the final against Spain, Pulcini added: “It's going to be a really tough game. I thought France was going to win this, and then Spain controlled the game. It was unbelievable how they played. They're insanely good.”
