Tom Watson Apologizes for American Fans’ Behavior at the Ryder Cup
Former Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson offered apologies to the winning European team for the behavior of American fans at Bethpage Black.Watson, winner of five British Opens and eight major titles, expressed his shame for what happened, both as a former player, captain, and American. Watson, 76, participated in four Ryder Cup teams. He was captain of the winning US team in 1993 in England and losing captain in 2014 in Scotland. The European team, and Rory McIlroy in particular, were subjected to constant booing and insults, some directed at his wife and family, during the three-day event in Farmingdale, New York. Often, the insults occurred as he was about to hit the ball, causing delays and forcing the PGA of America to add additional security.I would like to congratulate @RyderCupEurope on their victory. Their team played sensationally the first few days. More importantly, I would like to apologize for the rude and malicious behavior of our American fans at Bethpage.
Tom Watson
McIlroy added that there was a lot of unacceptable language and abusive behavior. A video on social media showed Lowry having to be held back by his caddie after a fan said something before McIlroy hit a drive on Saturday. Another video showed McIlroy walking with his wife, Erica, when a beer appeared to be thrown in his direction and hit her. American team member Justin Thomas, after witnessing the verbal abuse directed towards McIroy and Shane Lowry on Saturday, said they felt for them. Thomas commented that it was unfortunate and that both he and Cam Young wished they had given them something to cheer for instead of having to cheer against. He concluded by saying that was the widespread opinion of the last two days.I don’t think we should accept that in golf.
Rory McIlroy
