S. Korean golfer known for eccentric swing invited to PGA Tour event

SEOUL, April 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korean golfer Choi Ho-sung, a viral Internet sensation thanks to his unorthodox swing, has been invited to his second PGA Tour event. The PGA Tour announced on its website Thursday that Choi has received a sponsor exemption into the July 10-14 John Deere Classic, which will be played at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois. "We're excited to welcome Choi to the John Deere Classic. We think our fans will enjoy his unique style of play, as well as his fun personality," said Clair Peterson, tournament director for the John Deere Classic. Choi, who mostly plies his trade in Asia, made his PGA Tour debut in February at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, also on a sponsor exemption. Choi missed the cut by 11 strokes after shooting nine-over through three rounds. But Choi was a fan favorite at Pebble Beach, where he showcased what is widely called "the fisherman's swing" before an American gallery for the first time. On his follow-through, Choi lifts his right foot off the ground and swings it around his body. His actions after the follow-through vary. Sometimes, he lands on his right foot as he leans forward and lifts his driver as if to will his tee shot on course. On other occasions, Choi has his back turned completely on the right side of the tee and takes a few steps toward the other end of the teeing ground. Videos showing Choi in action have gone viral, and U.S. instructional magazines have published frame-by-frame breakdowns of his swing. Last November, Choi proved he wasn't just a curiosity by winning the Casio World Open in Japan. Choi has four professional victories in his career. jeeho@yna.co.kr (END)