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PGA of America CEO Apologizes to McIlroy as Backlash Over Ryder Cup Fan Abuse Grows

Fresh criticism of leadership plus a formal apology to Rory McIlroy sharpen questions about how golf will police fan conduct at future Ryder Cups.

Overview

  • Derek Sprague said he sent a detailed apology email to Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll and vowed the PGA of America will do better after the hostile scenes at Bethpage Black.
  • President Don Rea downplayed the abuse by likening it to Rome 2023, a stance Matt Fitzpatrick called offensive and Tyrrell Hatton rejected as not comparable.
  • Heather McMahan, the first‑tee emcee who echoed a vulgar chant, resigned and apologized, later saying on her podcast that she made a foolish mistake and received death threats.
  • A viral clip showed a fan aiming a homophobic slur at McIlroy, after which he had the spectator ejected, and officials increased police and security around his group.
  • Team Europe won 15–13, and players and commentators are pressing for clearer spectator‑conduct standards and stronger security protocols before the 2027 matches.