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Morikawa Says U.S. Fans ‘Crossed the Line’ at Ryder Cup, Rejects Blame for Abuse

He says his call for “absolute chaos” was about crowd energy rather than rudeness.

Overview

  • Speaking in Japan ahead of the Baycurrent Classic, Collin Morikawa said some Bethpage spectators went too far but argued his remarks did not incite abusive behavior.
  • Europe retained the Ryder Cup 15-13 at Bethpage Black in September in a heated atmosphere that frequently targeted Rory McIlroy.
  • A thrown drink struck Erica McIlroy and Rory McIlroy called parts of the crowd conduct unacceptable, at times halting over putts and confronting hecklers.
  • Tournament officials responded by deploying additional security on course, including police dogs near greens during play.
  • PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague has said he will apologize to McIlroy and Team Europe, as Xander Schauffele acknowledged hearing “unsavoury” comments and Tom Watson expressed shame over the scenes.