Ryder Cup Fallout: PGA of America President Apologizes for Fan Behavior & Initial Response
The PGA of America is grappling with the aftermath of unruly fan conduct at the recent Ryder Cup, culminating in an apology from President Don Rea Jr. for both the behavior and his initial downplaying of the incidents. Europe secured a 15-13 victory – their sixth in the last eight contests – but the event was significantly marred by profane and personal attacks directed at European players.
Rea issued a statement on Thursday via email to the organization’s 30,000-plus members, acknowledging the severity of the situation. “Let me begin with what we must own,” the letter read, as obtained by The Associated Press. “While the competition was spirited – especially with the U.S. team’s rally on Sunday afternoon – some fan behavior clearly crossed the line. It was disrespectful, inappropriate, and not representative of who we are as the PGA of America or as PGA of America golf professionals. We condemn that behavior unequivocally.”
The issues began as early as Friday morning at Bethpage Black, with reports of fans chanting vulgarities at Rory McIlroy as his image appeared on the video screen. The situation escalated throughout the weekend, including instances of beer being thrown towards McIlroy’s wife and a hired comedian participating in abusive chants.
Rea’s initial response, given in a BBC interview on Sunday, drew immediate criticism. He likened the fan behavior to that of a “youth soccer game,” suggesting it was a natural byproduct of a large, enthusiastic crowd. “You’ve got 50,000 people here that are really excited, and heck, you could go to a youth soccer game and get some people who say the wrong things,” he stated. He also suggested the behavior was a distraction for American players, forcing them to manage the crowd.
This comparison was widely condemned, particularly by European players and fans. Matt Fitzpatrick reportedly found the reference “pretty offensive to European fans.” Shane Lowry described the abuse directed at McIlroy’s wife as “astonishing.”
Rea’s apology acknowledged the negative reception to his comments. “While it wasn’t my intention, some of my comments were seen in a negative light which reflects poorly on not only myself but also on the PGA of America and for that I truly apologize.” He also stated that CEO Derek Sprague had already apologized to McIlroy, his wife (a former PGA employee), and Ryder Cup Europe.
Sprague himself addressed the issue on Golf Channel, stating that spectators had “crossed the line” and reiterating a personal apology to McIlroy and his wife. “Rory might have been a target because of how good he is, but the entire European team should not have been subjected to that,” Sprague said.
The controversy extends beyond the fan behavior and initial responses. Rea also faced scrutiny for an awkward moment during the trophy presentation on Sunday, incorrectly stating that Europe had “retained” the cup rather than “won” it. Despite the criticism, Rea posted on LinkedIn on Tuesday that he was “not bothered,” framing it as part of the role.
This incident echoes past controversies for the PGA of America. In 2014, then-President Ted Bishop was removed from his position following a social media post containing an offensive remark about European player Ian Poulter.
The selection of Bethpage Black as the Ryder Cup venue in 2013 was made despite the course’s existing reputation for boisterous and sometimes hostile fan interactions. The events of the recent Ryder Cup have reignited the debate about the responsibility of the PGA of America to ensure a respectful environment for all competitors and spectators.
