The 2016 ESPY Awards took place in the US last night and, as with many awards shows, it opened with a monologue from the host, actor and WWE star John Cena.
He had a pop at a whole string of high-profile sports stars in his speech, but finished with a joke at the expense of Ireland and some of the Irish golfers.
Video from Pat McCarry.
Speaking about the Rio Olympics Cena said: “Irish golfers Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Shane Lowry pulled out of the Olympics because of the Zika virus.
“Which is surprising ‘cause the Irish aren’t really known for pulling out.”
It’s a little harsh to focus on the Irish contingent when American Jordan Spieth, Australia’s Jason Day and a host of other high-profile stars have also withdrawn.
The joke got a mixed reaction online.
"rory mcilroy pulled out of the olympics which is weird because the Irish aren't known for pulling out" - John 'Nobody Meaner' Cena
— Dome Beers (@DomeBeers) July 14, 2016
John Cena dropped a bomb on Rory Mcilroy 😂😂😬😬
— blake petterle (@blake_petterle2) July 14, 2016
As an Irish man really enjoyed your line about the Irish golfers and pulling out. Great opening monologue well done
— jamiesconroy (@jamieSG1Nidan) July 14, 2016
Check out Cena’s full monologue.
Video from Ximo LIVE.
