The Ryder Cup events at Bethpage Black significantly surpassed all expectations regarding noise levels and emotional intensity. The afternoon four-ball match featuring European stars Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry was marked by an unprecedented level of taunting and shouts from the spectators.
Throughout all 18 holes, the players faced constant harassment, especially during their pre-shot routines or before putting. As the European team increased its lead over the Americans, the crowd`s intensity grew, leading to heightened security measures and several fan ejections.
McIlroy was repeatedly distracted from his game by fan shouts. Lowry noted that it was a very tough day, and McIlroy bore the brunt of the abuse. Earlier that day, McIlroy had already responded to hecklers with “Shut the f— up!” He emphasized that while he expects criticism at an away Ryder Cup, it shouldn`t occur during shot preparation.
The attacks on McIlroy ranged from direct insults to references about his past defeats, a supposedly fluke Masters victory this year, and even his personal life. Lowry also received his share of derogatory remarks concerning his weight and perceived lack of contribution to their partnership.
By the ninth hole, the number of New York State Police troopers lining the ropes had considerably increased. On the 10th hole, Lowry personally requested an officer to eject a fan who had insulted McIlroy.
The PGA of America confirmed strengthened security measures and an increase in warnings displayed on video screens. According to a police spokesperson, two fans were ejected. However, the shouts and heckling continued, with marshals and officials unsuccessfully attempting to calm the crowd.
European player Robert MacIntyre observed that American player Justin Thomas, who seemed to feed off the crowd`s energy, also tried to quiet them down.
McIlroy contained his emotions amidst the frenzy until he could retaliate. On the 14th hole, with the match all square, he sank a birdie putt, retrieved his ball, and celebrated emotionally, addressing the stands with shouts of “Come on! Come the f— on!” After Thomas missed his birdie putt, giving the Europeans the lead for the first time since the ninth hole, McIlroy again looked at the crowd and pointed to the scoreboard.
“It was a really difficult day,” McIlroy said. “I`m drained… I`m going to sleep well tonight.”
After their 2-up victory on the 18th green, McIlroy and Lowry embraced their wives and teammates before celebrating with the loud European supporters in the stands.
U.S. captain Keegan Bradley commented on the American crowd`s behavior, calling them ” passionate,” given their team was losing badly. He noted that in away matches, there will always be those who cross the line. Bradley partially attributed the blame to his team for not meeting expectations, which fueled the fans` anger.
Lowry, however, described Saturday`s experience as unique:
“It was intense. It was like something I`ve never experienced. But this is what I live for. This is it. This is, honestly, the reason I get up in the morning, for stuff like this. I love being part of this team. I really want us to win this tournament.”
