INTERNATIONAL'S KIMS MOTIVATED BY CURSES

But US Team's Schauffele denies it, saying they treated opponents with utmost respect

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South Korea's Tom Kim, an emotional spark for the International Team against the United States at the Presidents Cup, said he and compatriot Kim Si-woo were cursed at by opponents on Sept 28.

The duo were edged 1-up by Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele at Royal Montreal as the US team seized an 11-7 edge entering into the 12 final singles matches on Sept 29.

Both Kims holed long shots to win what became an emotional duel, with Si-woo making a Stephen Curry "goodnight" gesture after sinking a 40-foot chip from the greenside rough to win the 16th hole.

"My favourite NBA (National Basketball Association) player is Steph Curry, so that's what I did," Si-woo said.

"It didn't finish well, but yeah, I was excited."

Tom said the emotions brought out unsportsmanlike behaviour.

"As it got towards the end, it got a little feisty out there," he said.

"I could hear some players cursing at us.

"I don't think there was good sportsmanship there.

"But it's all part of the fun. I understand it.

"The US team definitely motivated us to go out there."