Introduction
Patrick Stephen Cantlay—nicknamed “Patty Ice”—is one of golf’s most compelling figures. With a blend of precision, resilience, and calm under pressure, the American star has captured fans’ attention both on and off the PGA Tour. This comprehensive profile dives into his relationship with LIV Golf, notable controversies, physical stats, marital life, and major wins.
1. A Brief Background
Born March 17, 1992, in Long Beach, California, Cantlay attended UCLA and emerged as an amateur powerhouse, holding the world No. 1 amateur ranking for a remarkable 55 weeks. His decorated college career included awards like the Jack Nicklaus Award, Haskins Award, and Mark H. McCormack Medal.
Turning professional in 2012, Cantlay steadily rose through the ranks—overcoming injury setbacks to claim eight PGA Tour titles and the 2021 FedEx Cup.
2. LIV Golf Speculation: Fact or Fiction?
There has been speculation tying Cantlay to LIV Golf—a breakaway league drawing players with lucrative offers. However, there’s no credible evidence he intends to leave the PGA Tour. Recent coverage underscores that he remains firmly engaged in PGA Tour competition, with no plans to join LIV .
3. Controversy: “Hatgate” and Team Allegiance
Perhaps Cantlay’s most talked-about controversy came during the Ryder Cup in Rome. He refused to wear a Team USA cap, citing poor fit. Speculation swirled that his refusal was a protest against not being paid. The episode elicited jokes and light-hearted takes from fans and pundits. At the subsequent Presidents Cup, Cantlay did wear the cap—ending the so-called “hatgate” saga.
He’s also shared a tense history with Rory McIlroy—stemming from an incident where his caddie waved a hat to celebrate a putt during the U.S. Open, leading to a confrontation and heightened media interest.
4. Physical Profile: Height & Build
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Height: 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
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Weight: Approximately 160 lb (73 kg)
Cantlay maintains an athletic yet understated frame. His controlled swing and compact mechanics are landmarks of his play style—favoring strategy over power.
5. Married Life: Nikki Guidish
Cantlay’s personal life has made headlines too. He began dating pharmacist and former fitness model Nikki Guidish in 2021. The couple got engaged in September 2022 during a Napa Valley trip and married in an elegant ceremony in Rome on October 2, 2023. Guidish, now known as Nikki Cantlay, continues her career in pharmacology and shares a dog with Patrick.
6. PGA Tour Wins & Highlights
Cantlay has claimed eight PGA Tour victories and total nine professional wins overall (including one Korn Ferry Tour win). Noteworthy triumphs include:
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2017 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open – his first PGA Tour win via playoff.
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2019 Memorial Tournament – delivered a final-round 64 to come from behind.
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2020 Zozo Championship – won at Sherwood Country Club during the pandemic reshuffle.
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2021 BMW Championship – defeated Bryson DeChambeau in a playoff.
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2021 Tour Championship – secured the FedEx Cup and earned PGA Tour Player of the Year honors.
Additionally, Cantlay has represented the U.S. in Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup events, playing a key role in team victories.
7. Why Cantlay Captivates Golf Fans
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Quiet Consistency: “Patty Ice” isn’t flashy—he’s methodical and exceptionally calm.
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Resilience: Came back strongly from a serious back injury that derailed early professional years.
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Strategic Excellence: His swing is smooth and calculated, delivering accuracy and result-oriented performance.
FAQs
Q1: Has Patrick Cantlay joined LIV Golf?
A: No—he remains active on the PGA Tour and has not indicated any plans to join LIV.
Q2: What was the “hatgate” controversy about?
A: At the 2023 Ryder Cup, Cantlay refused to wear a Team USA cap, citing poor fit. Some speculated it was protest over pay, but he wore the cap at the subsequent Presidents Cup, ending the controversy.
Q3: How tall is Patrick Cantlay?
A: He stands at 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) and weighs around 160 lb (73 kg).
Q4: Is Patrick Cantlay married?
A: Yes, he married Nikki Guidish, a pharmacist and former fitness model, in October 2023.
Q5: How many PGA Tour wins does he have?
A: He has eight PGA Tour wins and one Korn Ferry Tour win—a total of nine professional victories.
Q6: What are his most significant victories?
A: Highlights include the 2017 Shriners Open, 2019 Memorial, 2020 Zozo Championship, 2021 BMW Championship, and the 2021 Tour Championship (FedEx Cup).
Summary
Patrick Cantlay’s reputation—marked by composure, intelligence, and clutch performance—is well-earned. From his amateur dominance to breakpoint victories on tour, and even marrying under the spotlight, Cantlay continues to embody precision golf with humility.
