Comedian Heather McMahan has stepped down as a Ryder Cup emcee after a video showed her joining a crowd in an expletive-filled chant targeting European golfer Rory McIlroy.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, captures McMahan participating in the vulgar chant directed at McIlroy, who has been a primary target of the Bethpage Black crowd. In a statement, the PGA of America confirmed her departure and apology.
“Heather McMahan has extended an apology to Rory McIlroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup,” the PGA of America announced.
The incident was part of a pattern of hostile behavior McIlroy has faced throughout the event. On Saturday, an exasperated McIlroy delayed a putt on the sixth green until the crowd quieted down and later told hecklers to “shut the f— up” before hitting a precise approach shot on the 16th hole. The persistent heckling led to an increased security presence for both McIlroy and his teammate, Shane Lowry.
“I don’t mind them having a go at us. Like that’s to be expected. I mean, that’s what an away Ryder Cup is,” McIlroy said after Saturday morning’s session. “Whenever they are still doing it while you are over the ball and trying to hit your shot, that’s the tough thing.”
Despite the distractions, McIlroy holds a 3-0-1 record heading into the final day. He is set to face world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler in a highly anticipated singles match. Europe leads the United States 11 1/2 to 4 1/2, needing only 2 1/2 points on Sunday to retain the Ryder Cup.
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