Rory McIlroy Receives Apology from PGA Boss After Ryder Cup Abuse
Rory McIlroy and his wife Erica received an apology from the PGA of America chief following the abuse they endured from some American fans during the Ryder Cup.
McIlroy on the Apology
The Masters champion said he received a “lovely” email from Derek Sprague, the CEO of the PGA of America. He described the message as gracious and apologetic, adding that he and Erica, who had worked with Sprague in the past, appreciated the letter greatly.
“I got a lovely email from Derek Sprague apologising. 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.”
Impact of the Abuse at the Ryder Cup
Throughout the three-day event, McIlroy faced sustained abuse from the crowd, while Erica was even hit by a thrown beer can on the Saturday. Despite this, McIlroy viewed the hostility as a strange compliment and said it strengthened the European team during their 15-13 victory at Bethpage.
“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me. But then at the same time, it was a tough week. That made us better as a team.”
PGA’s Response
Following the intense Ryder Cup in September, Derek Sprague promised to reach out to McIlroy and his wife, which he fulfilled with the apology email.
Summary
The PGA of America’s CEO apologized sincerely to Rory McIlroy and his wife for the abuse they faced at the Ryder Cup, which the athlete took as motivation despite its difficulty.
Author's summary: Rory McIlroy appreciated the PGA chief’s heartfelt apology for Ryder Cup crowd abuse, seeing the adversity as a driving force behind Europe’s win.