US golf legend Tom Watson has condemned the behaviour of home fans at Bethpage Black after Europe’s Ryder Cup victory, saying he was “ashamed” of their conduct.
The biennial clash was played in a fiery atmosphere, with Rory McIlroy the main target of taunts. The Northern Irishman revealed that a beer was even thrown at his wife, Erica, while he also endured constant barracking during play.
In a social media post on Monday, Watson – an eight-time Major champion and former Ryder Cup captain – apologised for the crowd’s actions.
“I’d like to apologise for the rude and mean-spirited behaviour from our American crowd at Bethpage,” he wrote. “As a former player, captain, and as an American, I am ashamed of what happened.”
McIlroy clashed verbally with spectators several times on Saturday, at one point telling fans to “shut up” as he prepared to play a shot. He was also forced to back off putts because of the noise, prompting organisers to bring in extra security, including police dogs, around the greens.
“There was a lot of language that was unacceptable and abusive behaviour,” McIlroy said after Europe sealed a 15-13 win on Sunday. “It should be off-limits, but obviously it wasn’t this week.”
Photo: Harry How/Getty Images
Article Link: Watson slams US fans over Ryder Cup abuse