( CNN ) -- Golf can be a frustrating game -- just ask Patrick Reed . The 24-year-old could be in trouble with golf 's authorities after a foul-mouthed reaction to a missed putt during the WGC-HSBC Champions event in Shanghai . Reed , who starred for America during its recent Ryder Cup defeat to Europe , was caught on camera swearing and using a term which could be deemed homophobic . After making a bogey on the 10th hole at the Sheshan International , Reed was heard to say : `` Nice f****** three-putt you f****** f****t. '' Reed , who finished the opening round five shots behind leader Graeme McDowell -- his playing partner -- was quick to apologize on Twitter , but could now face sanctions . The PGA Tour has rules that govern against poor language on the course , and it said in a statement they were aware of the situation . `` The PGA Tour 's Conduct Unbecoming regulations prohibit the use of obscene language on the golf course , '' it said . `` The PGA Tour will deal with this matter internally in accordance with its regulations . '' Reed has enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2014 , winning two events , including the WGC Cadillac Championship back in March . After that victory -- the biggest of his career to date -- Reed compared himself to 14-time major champion Tiger Woods and declared himself to be `` one of the top five players in the world . '' He also caused controversy during his first appearance for the United States in its biennial team battle against Europe at the Ryder Cup , held in Scotland back in September . Reed , who was unbeaten in his four matches at the competition , shushed the galleries during one of his matches , which earned him a chorus of boos from the home supporters . Reed fully embraced his pantomime villain status and was lauded for his passion to the cause as Team USA slumped to a sixth defeat in the last seven tournaments . `` This is the best event I 've ever played in my life , '' Reed told reporters after his debut appearance . `` Just to get to know these guys and to be out here means a lot to me . `` I definitely want to be back and I 'll definitely be trying even harder just to come back . '' Northern Ireland 's McDowell shot an opening round of 67 after recording seven birdies in 12 holes on Thursday at the the $ 8.5 million showpiece . The 2010 U.S. Open champion leads by two shots from a clutch of players on three-under , including Rickie Fowler and reigning U.S. Open champion Martin Kaymer , from Germany . `` A big key to this golf course is driving the ball well . I drove it very well today , '' McDowell told reporters . `` And the greens are in fantastic shape , and I actually putted very well . Dropped a couple coming in , but all in all , very pleased with five-under par on what I thought was a reasonably tricky day . ''
Patrick Reed could be in hot water with PGA Tour after rant in China . Reed said : 'Nice f****** three-putt you f****** f****t ' on 10th hole . The PGA Tour has said it will deal with the matter internally .