Poulter's taser remark roils Ryder Cup buildup as Bethpage Black hosts

As the Ryder Cup heads to Bethpage Black in New York, Ian Poulter caused a stir by saying he would like to taser American golf fans who shout "mashed potatoes" and all that fg bks. The seven-time Ryder Cup veteran told SportBible that he would borrow the security guard's taser for one go per hole, joking that that'd be awesome to hit them 'right between the eyes.'

At 49, Poulter is one of the event's most familiar faces when it comes to countering hostile crowds. He reflected on his time competing in the Ryder Cup, recalling the 2021 match at Whistling Straits, where Europe was overwhelmed as the United States surged to a 19-9 victory and where even players' families were subjected to abuse described as 'dog's abuse.' With a European lineup that includes Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick, the New York crowd is already being cast as especially vocal.

During a separate session, McIlroy — the event's biggest target among the home fans — was booed during his practice round on Tuesday, and Rahm faced taunts such as 'hey Rahmbo, where's the Ozempic?' as he prepared for his first tee shot.

Poulter's remarks drew immediate attention, though he argued they were more about the intensity of the atmosphere than a personal attack on fans. 'It's not heckling, it's complete and utter embarrassing stupidity,' he said of the crowd. 'You don't get that at the Open Championship. You don't get it anywhere. It's only in America the stupidity comes out.' He added that while the United States can provide fantastic atmosphere, there is 'no need' for the level of abuse toward players or their families.

Reaction from other veterans and commentators has been mixed. Dame Laura Davies, reflecting on Whistling Straits four years ago, said the abuse had gone 'too far' and that families of players were targeted. 'I heard a lot of horrible abuse that was said to players, and that was in the middle of nowhere, Whistling Straits,' Davies said. 'Now we’re in New York, ... I hope it doesn’t go over the top, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s that bad again.'

The match is set to begin soon, with Europe aiming to add another victory on American soil after winning in Rome two years ago. The United States counters with a roster led by Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau and Xander Schauffele, while Europe features Rahm, McIlroy, Fitzpatrick and a cluster of veteran performers seeking to quiet the crowd and reclaim the biennial trophy on home turf.