McIlroy Targeted by Rowdy Bethpage Fans

Rory McIlroy, fresh off a Masters win that completed his career Grand Slam and making his eighth Ryder Cup appearance, became the focal point for hostile U.S. crowds at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. He endured profane chants and reportedly reacted on multiple occasions — blowing kisses, making an obscene gesture earlier, and angrily telling nearby fans to “shut the f*** up” while preparing a shot on the 16th. On the course, McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood dominated the morning foursomes, defeating Collin Morikawa and Harris English 5&4, and McIlroy's afternoon match with Shane Lowry was halved after he missed a closing putt. Europe paced the event after Day 1, leading 5.5-2.5, with McIlroy cited as one of the team’s key contributors despite expressing disappointment at missing a full point. The week has featured intense partisan crowd energy at Bethpage Black, and organizers confirmed the one‑ball rule will not be enforced for 2025 foursomes, a technical tweak allowing players to change balls after each hole.