The squad captained by Rory McIlroy, representing Europe, managed to secure a resounding victory against the United States team at the 2025 Ryder Cup, despite facing a hostile atmosphere created by a number of fans who crossed the line. The one-sided results witnessed over the weekend at the Bethpage Black course seemed to ignite a segment of the already energetic crowd, leading to condemnation of the behavior from figures like Tom Watson, a former captain of the United States Ryder Cup team.
The unsettling behavior, including disruptive and occasionally offensive taunts from a small section of the spectators, led the event organizers to augment the police presence and overall security measures as the tournament progressed through the weekend.
“I’d like to extend my congratulations to @RyderCupEurope for their triumph,” Watson conveyed via a social media platform. “Your team demonstrated exceptional play in the initial days. More significantly, I must express my regret for the discourteous and spiteful conduct exhibited by some members of the American audience at Bethpage. As a former participant, Captain, and a proud American, I am deeply disappointed by these occurrences.”
2025 Ryder Cup: Commentary from Rory McIlroy Concerning Fan-Related Verbal Abuse at Bethpage Following Europe’s Successful Outing
Robby Kalland
McIlroy voiced his disapproval of the content and the timing of the derisive comments, primarily directed at him in his role as the European captain. On Friday, he was observed seemingly making a rude gesture in the direction of the gallery. Then on Saturday, he openly swore towards the crowd before executing a shot from an area of thick rough, further refusing to attempt a putt until the noise from the spectators had diminished during his swing preparation. Adding to the incidents, a public address announcer resigned from her position after she led a chant containing vulgar language aimed at McIlroy.
The unacceptable behavior also extended to McIlroy’s spouse, Erica, who became a target. Following the Saturday round, a spectator threw a drink that struck her hat.
“I believe this type of behavior is unacceptable within the realm of golf. I feel golf is deserving of a higher standard than the events that transpired this week,” McIlroy stated after Europe sealed its victory. “Golf possesses the power to bring people together. It imparts valuable lessons about life, including the importance of etiquette. It teaches the significance of adhering to regulations and demonstrating respect for others.
“However, we did not consistently witness these principles being upheld during this week’s event. Consequently, such behavior should not be tolerated at the Ryder Cup. Rest assured, we will communicate explicitly to our supporters in Ireland in 2027 that the events seen here this week are simply not acceptable.”
Europe’s success in the Ryder Cup marks their second consecutive win, simultaneously making them the first visiting team to triumph on foreign soil since their victory at Medinah in 2012. The European team established an early and substantial lead, demonstrating command during the Friday foursomes and four-balls sessions, and continued their strong performance on Saturday. Although the United States mounted a comeback with an 8½ -3½ session victory on Sunday, it was not adequate to overcome the significant deficit that the Americans had incurred during the initial two days of the competition.
