The victorious European Ryder Cup team has called out the behaviour of American fans at Bethpage after three days of unsavoury scenes from within the gallery.
Europe stalwart Rory McIlroy was on the receiving end of the lion’s share of the abuse, and the low point of the weekend came when a beer projected from the crowd struck McIlroy’s wife, Erica.
An MC hired by the PGA of America was also stood down after leading a “f*** you, Rory” chant before the second morning of competition.
Shane Lowry, who played alongside McIlroy, said Erica was a constant target of American abuse.
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“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, and kudos to her for that.”
Team Europe and their partners celebrate Ryder Cup victory. (Getty Images: Harry How)
An emotional McIlroy stood up for his wife and decried the abuse they both received in New York.
“Erica is fine. She is a very, very strong woman. She handled everything with class and poise and dignity like she always has.
“I love her, and we’re going to have a good time celebrating tonight.
“I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf. I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week.
“We will be making sure to say to our fans in Ireland in 2027 that what happened here is not acceptable.”
Luke Donald, the captain of the European team, praised his team for overcoming a “nasty” atmosphere.
Rory McIlroy celebrates victory with Shane Lowry. (Getty Images: Carl Recine)
McIlroy also said he thought the heavy police and security presence on the second afternoon was “insane” and believed the poor behaviour was isolated to a minority in the crowd.
“There was a lot of language that was unacceptable and abusive behaviour, but it’s a minority of the crowd.
“The majority of people here are true golf fans and are respectful, and let both teams have the same chance to hit the shots and have a fair contest.
“But there was a small subset of people that behaved a little bit differently than that.”
