McIlroy Thanks PGA Chief for Ryder Cup Apology and Questions LIV Changes
Rory McIlroy expressed gratitude to the PGA of America chief executive, Derek Sprague, for issuing a personal apology following fan misconduct directed at him and his wife during Europe’s Ryder Cup win at Bethpage Black. The Northern Irish golfer also commented on LIV Golf’s decision to adopt a 72-hole format, calling it an unusual move.
Personal Apology from Derek Sprague
Speaking before the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, McIlroy said the apology helped bring closure to what had been a tense week.
“I got a lovely email from Derek Sprague apologizing,” McIlroy told BBC Sport. “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 wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated.”
During the heated tournament, a beer thrown from the crowd struck his wife Erica’s hat, amid loud and often hostile home support. McIlroy became a central figure in the emotional atmosphere surrounding the event.
“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me, but it was a tough week,” he said. “That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and really brought us together.”
Response from Team USA
Although U.S. captain Keegan Bradley refused to criticize the passionate New York fans, McIlroy said the intensity of the atmosphere ultimately strengthened the European team’s spirit, helping them secure a narrow victory.
Views on LIV Golf’s Format Change
Looking ahead to the season’s Dubai finale after what he called “an amazing ten months,” McIlroy questioned LIV Golf’s recent switch to a 72-hole format, describing it as a peculiar decision for the breakaway tour.
Author Summary
McIlroy appreciated Derek Sprague’s apology after Ryder Cup fan abuse, reflected on the unity of Team Europe, and called LIV Golf’s new 72-hole structure a peculiar change.