Rory Stands Firm Against Unacceptable Fan Behavior in New York
At Bethpage Black: Rory McIlroy Decries Fan Behavior Amid European Victory
Rory McIlroy Criticizes Unsporting Behavior at Bethpage Black
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Rory McIlroy voiced strong disapproval of spectator conduct at Bethpage Black, describing the incessant heckling as unacceptable. McIlroy, who faced persistent jeering during the tournament, emphasized that golf should maintain a higher standard of conduct. “I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf,” McIlroy stated Sunday, following Europe’s 15-13 victory over the United States. He noted that instead of using their energy to insult European players, American fans should have supported their home players.
Increased Security Measures Following Fan Disruptions
Throughout the three-day competition, McIlroy and his teammates faced numerous verbal insults, some of which targeted his family. These disturbances led the PGA of America to enhance security measures, adding personnel to mitigate the rowdy atmosphere. McIlroy commented on the significant police and security presence, stating, “Look, nothing was going to happen physically, but there was a lot of unacceptable and abusive language.”
Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy: Targets of American Fans
McIlroy, who partnered with Shane Lowry on Saturday, endured continuous verbal abuse. New York State Police reported ejecting two individuals from the course, and additional precautions were put in place, including fan behavior warnings. While Sunday’s singles matches were less contentious, McIlroy continued to be a focal point for unruly fans during his encounter with Scottie Scheffler.
Response from Teammates and American Players
Justin Thomas, another key competitor, acknowledged the negative fan environment, recognizing the challenging conditions McIlroy and Lowry endured. He reflected, “Cam [Young] and I just wished that we gave them something to cheer for instead of people to cheer against.” Despite the difficult circumstances, McIlroy noted the ultimate triumph of Europe as a response to the hostile reception: “We shut them up by our performance.”
Spectator Incidents Garner Social Media Attention
Videos circulated online showing incidents involving European players. One clip depicted Lowry being restrained by his caddie after a fan incident before McIlroy’s shot on Saturday. Another video showed McIlroy with his wife Erica, who appeared to be struck by a thrown beer. Lowry praised Erica’s support under tough conditions, stating, “The amount of abuse she received was astonishing.”
McIlroy’s Poised Response to Continued Adversity
McIlroy admitted to engaging with fans sporadically when provoked, expressing satisfaction with his responses. He described an encounter on the 16th hole, saying it felt “very satisfying” to retort to a fan’s interruption during his play. Despite the confrontations, McIlroy highlighted the team’s commitment to handling the situation with “class and poise.”
