Duval saves PGA public relations nightmare

David Duval saved the PGA Tour from a huge public relations nightmare when he played the final round of the Phoenix Open on Sunday.

Duval, upset by hecklers during the third round, cleared out his locker Saturday night, apparently with the intention of quitting the tournament at the TPC of Scottsdale.

However, the tour coaxed the world number two into returning on Sunday and he shot 69 to finish equal 30th at five-under 279, earning $19,017. He would not have received a cent had he not played.

When asked whether he had planned to pull out, he said: "That's irrelevant.

"I played today and had a good day. I've always enjoyed playing here but I simply believe that we as players deserve to be treated with a bit more respect."

The galleries in Phoenix are probably the most boisterous on tour and many players don't like the party atmosphere.

However, not many receive outright heckling, which is what Duval is believed to be most upset about.

Duval incurred the gallery's wrath on Saturday when he made a gesture at the 12th hole. He raised a finger and observers differed on whether he appeared to be trying to call for quiet or making a provocative gesture.

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