Ryder Cup: Uproar escalates as fans are ejected and security is stepped up to shield Rory McIlroy at Bethpage Black
On day two, unruly spectators force removals and prompt added protection for Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry as Europe built a growing lead in Long Island.
Ryder Cup's second day turned volatile on Bethpage Black as security escorted several fans from the venue after a sustained wave of jeers aimed at Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry during Saturday afternoon's four-ball matches. The incidents, which had begun to flare on Friday, prompted additional protection for the European duo and their playing partners as they faced a hostile atmosphere just outside New York.
The Daily Mail reported that extra security was rushed to McIlroy and Lowry's match against Justin Thomas and Cameron Young, with officials prepared to deploy stand-by personnel to isolate groups if the crowd moved toward outright disorder. Police were also told to stay close to Bryson DeChambeau's group amid fears that tensions could spill over as the event wore on. Verified witnesses described instances of spectators directing abuse toward McIlroy and Lowry, including taunts about wives and families.
The unsavory mood had been building since the tournament began, with McIlroy seen holding up his middle finger to fans as he walked off the course on day one. The day-two chorus grew louder in the grandstand, with spectators booing McIlroy as he arrived at the first tee on Saturday morning, and McIlroy replying by blowing kisses to the crowd before later shouting, “Guys, shut the f*** up” as he attempted a shot during the four-ball.
Europe extended its lead on Saturday, moving 8.5-3.5 ahead of the United States with the event remaining in Long Island, about 30 miles outside Manhattan. Ahead of the match, families of players on both sides opted to stay away, citing fears of a repeat of earlier incidents. Matt Fitzpatrick said his parents would skip the competition, explaining: “They didn't have a great experience in Whistling Straits (in 2021). That's not a lie or anything or making anything up. It's a lot of travel, it's obviously a busy week. And then they obviously want to have a nice week as well.”
Officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and there was no immediate update on whether the security perimeter would be widened or if additional measures would be deployed as the day progressed. More to follow as the Ryder Cup in Long Island continued to unfold amid reports of ongoing tensions between sections of the crowd and the European contingent.