Overview
- Gary Player called the 2025 contest at Bethpage Black a shambles and the worst event in the world, condemning abusive fan behavior and the PGA of America’s handling of the first-tee atmosphere.
- Comedian Heather McMahan, hired as emcee, joined a vulgar chant aimed at Rory McIlroy, then apologized and stepped down as PGA leaders issued apologies for the weekend’s conduct.
- Rory McIlroy decried the abuse as unacceptable and said the focus should return to Europe’s 15-13 away win, after reports that his wife Erica Stoll was struck by a thrown drink.
- Former U.S. captain Tom Watson publicly apologized for the rude and mean-spirited home crowd, adding a prominent American voice to criticism of what unfolded in New York.
- Roy Keane dismissed players’ complaints and suggested partners should have stayed at the hotel, comments that prompted public backlash and further debate over standards for fans and on-course access.