Crowd Abuse Mars Europe’s 15-13 Ryder Cup Win

Team Europe beat the USA 15-13 at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, but parts of the American crowd repeatedly abused opponents and marred the championship. Golf great Tom Watson publicly condemned the behavior on X, apologizing and saying he was “ashamed” as an American. Rory McIlroy was singled out for sustained chants and abuse, and his wife Erica Stoll was struck by a thrown drink, which prompted stepped-up security and widespread media and player criticism. Players, commentators and outlets called the conduct unacceptable and urged that golf uphold higher standards at future events. Europe captain Luke Donald, fresh off victories in Rome (2023) and Long Island (2025), said he would not rule out staying on to attempt an unprecedented third consecutive Ryder Cup win at Adare Manor in 2027.