Mcllroy Contemplates Ryder Cup After Fan Interaction

As the Ryder Cup now enters the stages of post talk discussions, there have been many headlines to catch eyes. One of the most prominent to come out after competition, is the fact of Rory McIlroy and his wife Erica being close to walking away from competition. Something that was not influenced by poor play or any other factors in that nature, but the unsolicited verbal attacks from fans. Understanding emotions were high in the final round and due to previous interactions. However, verbal attacks soon led to a physical interaction in which a beer can was thrown at Erica. Hitting her in the head and prompting a professional but serious reaction from Rory. Under those conditions, Mcllroy and company contemplated leaving the tournament but managed to stick it out. Getting the chance to experience the tough victory in the final round of play, putting the cherry on top. 

Friendly Competition?

Within many sports there is a social norm surrounded around the hype of fans. From getting a chance to see their favorite professional athlete, or going to a first game, emotions can understandably run high. Yet, there is no discussion on if there is room for the display shown by fans at the Ryder Cup. The simple and most correct answer is no, golf athletes or families should not be subjected to beer cans thrown. 

“I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week,” McIlroy said. “Golf has the ability to unite people. … It teaches you how to respect people. Sometimes this week, we didn’t see that. So, no, this should not be what is acceptable in the Ryder Cup.”

With team USA facing off against Europe, both teams often found themselves in exchanges with opposing fans. It reached its peak when families of the athletes began to be subjected to the rowdiness of fans in attendance. Something that should never take place, yet did not slow down the European team in handling business as scheduled. 

Potential Change In Crowd Interaction 

With the world of golf having front row seats to the display of interactions at the Ryder Cup, many have called for a change. Change not only in an amplified setting like Bethpage, but also in more calm ones during the PGA Tour season of play. With less physical and verbal interactions within the Tour, they are still relevant within the many various tournaments seen. Controlling things to a more respectful environment, not only benefits the players but shows class for a sport that holds so much in itself. 

“With some of the stuff I had to deal with this week on the course, I really appreciated how Justin Thomas and Cameron Young tried to calm the crowd down,” McIlroy said. “With Scottie today, it wasn’t much of a match in terms of the quality of the golf, but it was very civil. All the players were. They’ve all said, ‘We’re so sorry with what you had to go through.’ It’s tough to lose the Ryder Cup. I’ve been there. But they handled themselves with class.”

Competition has come to an end in terms of Ryder Cup play, but the respect and care for both teams will continue on in all respective careers.