Rory McIlroy condemns homophobic abuse at Ryder Cup

Northern Irish golf star Rory McIlroy has spoken out against the "unacceptable and abusive behaviour" he endured during the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, where Team Europe triumphed over the United States 15–13.

Despite helping secure victory for Europe, McIlroy was subjected to a barrage of personal insults, including homophobic slurs and chants from sections of the American crowd. The abuse reached a disturbing level when one fan shouted, “Rory, don’t let your boyfriend down,” followed by further slurs deemed unprintable by journalists present. 

Adding to the distress, McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, was struck by a cup of beer thrown from the crowd. Comedian Heather McMahan, who had been emceeing at the first tee, led fans in a chant of “F*** you, Rory” before later apologising and stepping down from her role.

We will be making sure to say to our fans in Ireland in 2027 that what happened here this week is not acceptable.

Speaking after the tournament, McIlroy said: “I don’t think we should ever accept that. Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week. Golf teaches you etiquette, how to play by the rules, and how to respect people. Sometimes, this week, we didn’t see that.” 

McIlroy’s teammate Shane Lowry also condemned the abuse, particularly the treatment of Erica Stoll, calling her support “unbelievable” and praising her dignity and strength throughout the ordeal. 

McIlroy, who has now won six Ryder Cups, vowed that future events - particularly the next one in Ireland - would uphold higher standards of conduct. “We will be making sure to say to our fans in Ireland in 2027 that what happened here this week is not acceptable,” he said.