Europe Wins Ryder Cup Amid Crowd Misconduct

Team Europe beat the USA 15-13 to win the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, with Rory McIlroy a key figure in Europe’s comeback. The tournament was marred by widespread crowd misconduct — sustained heckling, foul-mouthed chants led by the MC, and at least one thrown plastic cup that struck McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll — prompting extra security, police involvement and multiple ejections. McIlroy condemned the behaviour as unacceptable and praised his wife’s composure, while some U.S. figures, including U.S. captain Keegan Bradley, defended the crowd’s passionate support. Public outrage prompted calls for stronger sanctions, with one poll reporting 88% support for lifetime bans for offenders. Broadcasters and organisers were criticized for coverage choices and a delayed apology, leaving golf’s leaders to confront whether boisterous fandom or stricter decorum should define the sport.