Rory McIlroy Clashes With Fans During Ryder Cup Action

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Rory McIlroy confronted fans during the Ryder Cup on Saturday, telling them to “Shut the f— up!” as they heckled him before a shot in his match against American players. McIlroy’s outburst occurred while he was sitting 2 up with teammate Tommy Fleetwood against Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns.

While preparing to hit an approach shot, McIlroy backed off and shouted at the crowd, a moment that underscored the tension of competing on American soil. After refocusing, he delivered a solid shot and later watched Fleetwood sink a birdie putt that sealed their match with a 3-and-2 victory for Team Europe.

“I don’t mind them having a go at us. Like, that’s to be expected. I mean, that’s what an away Ryder Cup is,” McIlroy said post-match. “But whenever they are still doing it while you are over the ball and trying to hit your shot, that’s the tough thing.”

On Friday, McIlroy also faced heckling from the enthusiastic crowd at Bethpage Black, where U.S. team member Bryson DeChambeau had to quiet fans multiple times before McIlroy could take a shot. “In between shots, say whatever you want to me,” McIlroy remarked. “But just let us — you gave us the respect to let us hit shots.”

During the first two days, McIlroy received loud boos, including chants of “F— you, Rory” as he approached the first tee. He responded to the crowd’s hostility by blowing kisses during his introductions.

So far, McIlroy has been successful in his partnerships, winning two matches and halving another with Fleetwood. As Europe took a commanding lead of 8½-3½ in the tournament, McIlroy emphasized the need for the team to maintain their momentum: “We have to keep the foot down,” he stated.

The Ryder Cup has been a challenging experience for the American team, marking a potential 11th loss in the last 15 matches. With only one victory in the morning session, they are now in a precarious position heading into the final day. The European team holds significant advantages in recent matches, with McIlroy and Fleetwood’s synergy becoming a cornerstone of their success.