FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Rory McIlroy has condemned the “unacceptable and abusive” behavior of fans at Bethpage Black, stating that golf should be held to a higher standard following Europe’s 15-13 victory over the United States.
Throughout the three-day event, McIlroy was the target of relentless heckling. The verbal abuse reportedly included insults directed at his wife and family and occurred even as he was preparing to hit shots, causing play delays.
“I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf,” McIlroy said Sunday. “I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week.”
The situation prompted the PGA of America to increase security, with McIlroy noting the “insane” police presence. Two individuals were removed from the course on Saturday, according to a New York State police spokesperson.
That day, as McIlroy played alongside Shane Lowry, social media videos captured tense moments, including one where Lowry’s caddie restrained him after a comment from the gallery. Another video showed a beverage appearing to be thrown toward McIlroy and his wife, Erica.
“I was out there for two days with Erica McIlroy, and the amount of abuse that she received was astonishing,” Lowry said. “The way she was out there supporting her husband and supporting her team was unbelievable.”
McIlroy admitted to responding on impulse, describing it as “very f—ing satisfying” to tell one heckler to “shut the f— up” on Saturday after an interruption during his pre-shot routine. “I chirped back a few times because it got to me,” he said. “We tried to handle everything that came our way with class and poise, and for the most part, I felt like we did that.”
He also questioned the focus of the American crowd, noting the lack of positive support for their own players during his Sunday singles match against Scottie Scheffler. “I didn’t hear a lot of shouts for Scottie today, but I heard a lot of shouts against me,” he said. “It’s like, support your players.”
American player Justin Thomas acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the comments directed at the European team. “Cam [Young] and I said it to Shane and Rory yesterday that we felt for them,” Thomas stated. “We weren’t giving them enough to cheer for, and they were just trying to help us win. I guess that’s the New York fans for you.”
Despite the hostile environment, McIlroy said the ultimate response came on the course. “It was a rough week for all of us,” he concluded, “but at the same time, we shut them up by our performance.”
Source link
