Ahead of the much-anticipated first World Golf Championship event of the season, the HSBC Champions, which tees off in Shanghai on Thursday, some of the world's best players took a step out of their comfort zone.
New world number one Brooks Koepka joined a few other big names in trying their hands at badminton, and didn't completely embarrass themselves.
Five of the top six golfers in the world, namely Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Justin Rose, Rory McIlroy, and Francesco Molinari stepped onto the fancy court in the Chinese metropolis.
Francesco Molinari of Italy, Justin Rose of England, Brooks Koepka of the United States and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland play badminton during a photocall prior to the WGC – HSBC Champions at the Chamber of Commerce Shanghai, October 23, 2018. /VCG Photo
Given the players, a Ryder Cup rematch of sorts was clearly in order as Koepka and the man he replaced atop the world rankings, Johnson, represented the US against Europe. But despite being teammates, Johnson was quick to point out that he can reclaim the top spot by winning the mega golfing event in Shanghai.
Johnson also reminded the media of their good relationship after rumors following the Ryder Cup of a heated argument between the two that nearly came to blows.