What did Rory McIlroy say about the crowd behavior at the 2021 Ryder Cup?

McIlroy stated that the "language and abusive behavior" from the crowd was unacceptable and not representative of true golf fans, wishing the police had been given more control to maintain order.

How did Rory McIlroy's wife Erica experience the crowd at the 2021 Ryder Cup?

Erica McIlroy had beer thrown at her during the Saturday afternoon fourballs session, amid the highly charged atmosphere at the Bethpage Black course.

Home / Sports / Ryder Cup Crowd Chaos: McIlroy Calls for Tighter Security

Ryder Cup Crowd Chaos: McIlroy Calls for Tighter Security

29 Sep

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Summary

Rory McIlroy subjected to crude taunts and attempts to distract him
McIlroy's wife had beer thrown at her during the event
McIlroy wishes police dogs had been unleashed to control the crowd

Ryder Cup Crowd Chaos: McIlroy Calls for Tighter Security

In the aftermath of the 2021 Ryder Cup, Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy has strongly criticized the behavior of the crowd at the event. McIlroy revealed that he was heckled and taunted throughout the three-day competition, with crude personal insults and repeated attempts to distract him as he tried to play his shots.

The world number two also disclosed that his wife Erica had beer thrown at her during the fractious Saturday afternoon fourballs session, amid a highly charged atmosphere at the Bethpage Black course in New York. McIlroy lost his composure on several occasions, making an offensive gesture and shouting back at the crowd, as play was repeatedly halted by police trying to restore calm.

Despite the hostile environment, McIlroy still managed to deliver three-and-a-half points for the European team, though he was ultimately unable to maintain his momentum and was beaten by Scottie Scheffler in the singles. Reflecting on the events, McIlroy stated that he "wishes they had let the dogs off the leashes" in reference to the heavy police presence, which he felt was necessary to control the unruly crowd.