McIlroy received 'lovely' apology over Ryder Cup abuse
Rory McIlroy revealed that PGA of America chief executive Derek Sprague personally apologized for the abuse directed at him and his wife during Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph in New York.
Europe resisted a strong comeback from the United States at Bethpage Black. The Americans started the final session trailing 12–5 and rallied in the singles, but ultimately fell short. McIlroy and his teammates from Luke Donald’s side endured harsh behavior from sections of the crowd, including an incident where a beer thrown from the stands struck McIlroy’s wife, Erica, on the hat.
Personal apology from Derek Sprague
“I got a lovely e-mail from Derek Sprague apologising,” McIlroy told BBC Sport before the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. “Erica worked with Derek at the PGA of America back in the day, so we know Derek and his wife pretty well. He couldn’t have been more gracious or apologetic and he wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated.”
Hostility that strengthened the team
Despite the abuse, McIlroy said the tense atmosphere only toughened the European team and drew them closer.
“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me, but at the same time, it was a tough week,” McIlroy said. “That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and really put our arms around each other.”
Differing reactions from team leaders
USA captain Keegan Bradley declined to criticise the “passionate” home crowd at Bethpage, a stance that contrasted with the distress caused to some European players. For McIlroy, however, the experience ultimately reinforced unity within Team Europe.
Author’s summary: McIlroy appreciated Derek Sprague’s heartfelt apology for the Ryder Cup abuse, framing the incident as a source of resilience for Europe’s victorious team.