PGA Tour pro Richy Werenski faces backlash for ‘Blue Lives Matter’ wristband

3M Open took place close to where George Floyd was killed in May

Professional golfer Richy Werenski is facing backlash after he wore a ‘Blue Lives Matter’ wristband at the 3M Open in Minnesota last week, close to the location where George Floyd was killed in May.

The death of Floyd, a black American who was killed when a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes, led to worldwide protests in support of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ anti-racism movement.

‘Black Lives Matter’ rallies have addressed the disproportionate number of deaths by black citizens at the hands of white police officers.

‘Blue Lives Matter’, meanwhile, is a campaign that was formed in 2014, which supports police officers.

Its aim is to increase protection for law enforcement.

Richy Werenski plays a shot on the ninth hole during the second round of the 3M Open (Getty Images)

America’s Werenski has reportedly worn the wristband for some time, but his tied third-place finish at the 3M Open garnered enough attention for it to become a major talking point following the conclusion of the tournament on Sunday.

Some golf fans also noted on Sunday that – given the location of the 3M Open in Blaine, Minnesota – the 28-year-old was wearing the wristband just a few miles from where Floyd was killed.