Coming into this year’s Ryder Cup, there was an expectation that the New York crowd at Bethpage could provide an intimidating atmosphere for the European players. In saying that, not many would have predicted just how vicious some of the abuse would get at times.
Some of the American spectators behaved in an appalling manner. Their heckling of European players quickly crossed the line into straight up abuse, with Rory McIlroy seemingly the main focus of the remarks.
McIlroy and playing partner Shane Lowry were involved in a handful of confrontations over the course of the weekend, with a number of spectators ejected as a result.
In the end, Europe would have the last laugh as they secured the first away victory in a Ryder Cup since 2012.
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USA Ryder Cup Legend ‘Ashamed’ By Actions Of American Fans At Bethpage
After this year’s edition, you get the sense that crowd behaviour will be more strictly policed at future Ryder Cups. It is also highly unlikely that such incidents will be a regular occurrence among home European crowds, who are usually very well behaved.
Evan many of those in America were appalled by some of the scenes that unfolded at Bethpage. Tom Watson, a five-time Ryder Cup player and the USA team captain in 2014, took to social media to share his thoughts on the actions of the home crowd over the weekend.
I’d like to congratulate @RyderCupEurope on their victory. Your team play the first few days was sensational.
More importantly, I’d like to apologize for the rude and mean-spirited behavior from our American crowd at Bethpage.
As a former player, Captain and as an American, I…
— Tom Watson (@TomWatsonPGA) September 29, 2025
I’d like to congratulate Europe on their victory. Your team play for the first few days was sensational.
More importantly, I’d like to apologise for the rude and mean-spirited behaviour from our American crowd at Bethpage.
As a former player, captain and as an American, I am ashamed of what happened.
A nice touch.
While any Ryder Cup is always hugely satisfying, the manner in which this one was won in spite of the tough conditions is sure to be a bit extra special for the European team.
SEE ALSO: Shane Lowry Identifies One Surprising Aspect Of Abuse From Ryder Cup Fans
