Chamblee confirmed to Reuters on Thursday that he had received a letter in the aftermath of last month's Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, where Reed incurred a two-stroke penalty for improving his lie in a sandy waste bunker.

"The purpose of this letter is to obtain assurance that you will refrain from any further dissemination, publication or republication of false and defamatory statements concerning Mr. Reed ..." - Part of a letter sent to Brandel Chamblee by Patrick Reed's lawyer.

The letter was first reported by Golfweek, which said it was sent by New York City law firm Sullivan & Worcester.

"The purpose of this letter is to obtain assurance that you will refrain from any further dissemination, publication or republication of false and defamatory statements concerning Mr. Reed, including any allegations that he 'cheated' at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas," wrote Peter Ginsberg, a partner at the firm, according to Golfweek.

Chamblee told Reuters the letter "hints at legal action" and accuses him of "flippant and reckless comments".

Chamblee was a winner on the PGA Tour before turning to television, where he has carved out a wide reputation as a well-prepared and hard-hitting analyst.

He said his comments relating to Reed were made out of concern at a wider issue he worries is becoming pervasive.

Reed is playing in the Sony Open in Hawaii, where he shot one-under-par 69 in the first round on Thursday.

-RAW