Rory McIlroy: Criticizes Fan Abuse in NY, "Unacceptable"

In the recent golf tournament, Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure, expressed his discontent with the behavior of some fans at Bethpage Black. The player called the attitude unacceptable and pointed out that American supporters should have backed their own players, instead of directing their energies to insult the Europeans.

I don’t think we should accept that in golf. Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen this week.
Rory McIlroy

During the three days of competition, McIlroy was subjected to insults and taunts, some directed at his wife and family, and even during his shots, which forced the PGA of America to reinforce security. The situation required a significant police and security presence. On Saturday, McIlroy played alongside Shane Lowry, and both suffered constant verbal abuse. According to a New York State Police spokesperson, two people were ejected from the course. The PGA of America increased security and added signs to warn about the behavior of the fans. Although the individual Sunday sessions didn’t present as many alterations, McIlroy continued to be the target of the fans during his match with Scottie Scheffler.

If I were American, I would feel annoyed. I didn’t hear many cheers for Scottie today, but I did hear a lot against me. It’s like, support your players. That’s the issue.
Rory McIlroy

Justin Thomas, who played against McIlroy and Lowry on Saturday, acknowledged the insults that the fans directed at the European stars.

Cam Young and I told Shane and Rory yesterday that we felt for them. It was unfortunate.
Justin Thomas

A video on social media showed Lowry being held back by his caddie after a fan said something before McIlroy teed off. Another video captured McIlroy walking with his wife, Erica, when a beer appeared to be thrown in their direction, hitting her.

I was there for two days with Erica McIlroy, and the amount of abuse she received was astonishing. And the way she was there supporting her husband and his team was incredible, and my congratulations to her for that.
Shane Lowry

McIlroy admitted that he responded to the fans based on impulse, finding it “very satisfying” to tell a fan to “shut up” after he shouted during his pre-shot routine on the 16th hole.