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Ralph Lauren ends partnership with Justin Thomas after use of homophobic slur

Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Ralph Lauren ended its partnership with Justin Thomas on Friday after the 13-time PGA Tour winner used a homophobic slur at the Tournament of Champions last weekend.

"We are disheartened by Mr. Thomas’s recent language, which is entirely inconsistent with our values," the company said in a statement. "While we acknowledge that he has apologized and recognizes the severity of his words, he is a paid ambassador of our brand and his actions conflict with the inclusive culture that we strive to uphold.

"In reflecting on the responsibility we have to all of our stakeholders, we have decided to discontinue our sponsorship of Mr. Thomas at this time."

Thomas was caught by a greenside microphone using a homophobic slur following a missed putt. He apologized for his choice of words immediately following his Saturday round, and then again on Sunday.

"It's inexcusable. I, first off, I just apologize," Thomas said. "I mean, there's no excuse. I'm an adult. I'm a grown man, there's absolutely no reason for me to say anything like that."

Ralph Lauren did not rule out sponsoring Thomas in the future.

"As we make this decision, our hope is that Mr. Thomas does the hard and necessary work in order to partner with us again - truly examining this incident, learning, growing, and ultimately using his platform to promote inclusion."

Thomas has been with the apparel brand since turning pro in 2013.

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