Rory McIlroy Thanks PGA Chief for Apology Over Ryder Cup Abuse
Rory McIlroy expressed gratitude to Derek Sprague, CEO of the PGA of America, for personally apologizing for the abusive behavior he and his wife experienced during Europe’s Ryder Cup win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy said this apology helped bring closure after a challenging week.
“I got a lovely email from Derek Sprague apologizing,” McIlroy told BBC Sport before the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. “Erica worked with Derek at the PGA of America back in the day, so we know Derek and his wife pretty well. He couldn’t have been more gracious or apologetic and he wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated.”
During the intense three-day event, a beer thrown from the crowd hit Erica McIlroy’s hat, illustrating the hostile environment McIlroy faced as the focal point for the passionate home crowd. Despite the difficulties, McIlroy took the abuse as a form of recognition, saying it ultimately strengthened the team's unity.
“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me, but then at the same time it was a tough week,” he said. “That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and it really put our arms around each other.”
McIlroy Critiques LIV Golf's New Format
Besides addressing the Ryder Cup events, McIlroy called LIV Golf's recent change to a 72-hole format “peculiar.”
Looking Ahead
Following the Ryder Cup, McIlroy is focusing on the Dubai finale after what he described as “an amazing 10 months.”
Context on Fan Behavior
While USA captain Keegan Bradley chose not to criticize the passionate New York fans, McIlroy believes the experience helped strengthen Europe's resolve as they narrowly secured victory.
“That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and it really put our arms around each other.”
Author’s summary: Rory McIlroy welcomed the PGA apology for Ryder Cup fan abuse, reflected on how it united the European team, and questioned the logic behind LIV Golf’s new 72-hole format.