Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy has disclosed that he received a personal letter of contrition from Derek Sprague, the PGA of America’s chief executive, following distressing incidents during Europe’s triumph at the Ryder Cup in New York.
The four-time major champion and his spouse Erica endured hostile treatment from spectators at Bethpage Black, with one supporter hurling a beer that struck Mrs McIlroy’s headwear.
Speaking whilst preparing for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, McIlroy characterised the correspondence as a “lovely letter” that demonstrated genuine remorse for the unsavoury episodes.
The incidents occurred as Europe successfully defended their lead against a spirited American resurgence in the final session of the competition.
Rory McIlroy revealed he had received a ‘lovely letter’ apologising for the incidents at the Ryder Cup
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The golfer revealed to BBC Sport that Sprague’s electronic correspondence was particularly meaningful given their existing relationship.
“Erica worked with Derek at the PGA of America back in the day, so we know Derek and his wife pretty well,” McIlroy explained.
The Northern Irishman emphasised the sincerity of the message, stating: “He couldn’t have been more gracious or apologetic and he wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated.”
This personal connection between the McIlroys and Sprague added weight to the apology, transforming what might have been a perfunctory gesture into a genuine expression of regret for the troubling behaviour witnessed during the competition.
The hostile atmosphere at Bethpage Black saw Luke Donald’s squad subjected to sustained verbal attacks throughout the three-day contest.
Rory McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, was struck by a drink hurled from the hostile crowd during the Ryder Cup
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XAmerican supporters particularly focused their ire on McIlroy, who later remarked: “I take it as a compliment that they targeted me, but then at the same time, it was a tough week.”
Despite Europe entering the final day with a commanding 12-5 advantage, the home crowd’s fervour intensified as their team mounted a singles comeback that ultimately fell short at 15-13.
American captain Keegan Bradley declined to criticise what he termed “passionate” supporters.
McIlroy, however, believed the antagonistic environment had paradoxically strengthened European resolve: “That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and it really put our arms around each other.”
McIlroy had previously articulated his disappointment with the crowd’s conduct, asserting: “I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf.
Rory McIlroy led Team Europe to victory at the Ryder Cup
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“I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week.”
The 36-year-old emphasised the sport’s unique values, declaring that golf “teaches you etiquette” and “how to respect people,” qualities he felt were absent during portions of the competition.
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Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll took the brunt of the abuse throughout the weekend | REUTERS
Now focused on concluding an exceptional campaign, McIlroy reflected on his achievements since January, including victories at the Masters, Players Championship, Pebble Beach Pro-Am and Irish Open.
“Honestly, in my wildest dreams, I didn’t know. I mean, I knew a year like this was possible, but it has just been an amazing 10 months,” he remarked.
