McIlroy Appreciates PGA of America Apology for Ryder Cup Abuse
Rory McIlroy revealed that Derek Sprague, chief executive of the PGA of America, sent him a personal apology for the abuse he and his wife endured during Europe's Ryder Cup victory.
Details of the Ryder Cup Incident
The Ryder Cup took place in New York in September, where Europe narrowly defeated the United States 15-13 after a fierce final-day comeback attempt by the Americans. McIlroy was subjected to relentless abuse from the hostile home crowd, including an incident where a beer was thrown and hit his wife Erica on the hat.
"I got a lovely e-mail from Derek Sprague apologising," McIlroy told the BBC ahead of the Abu Dhabi Championship.
Erica McIlroy previously worked with Sprague at the PGA of America, which made the apology even more meaningful to the couple.
"He couldn't have been more gracious or apologetic and he wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated."
McIlroy’s Response to the Abuse
While McIlroy occasionally responded to the crowd's hostility, he admitted that the abuse ultimately motivated the European team. Their unity helped them become the first team to win the Ryder Cup on foreign soil in 13 years.
"I take it as a compliment that they targeted me, but then at the same time, it was a tough week," said the world number two.
"That made us better as a team. It galvanised us and it really put our arms around each other."
McIlroy’s resilience and leadership were key elements in Europe's historic victory amid a challenging atmosphere.
Summary: Rory McIlroy valued the PGA of America CEO’s apology for the Ryder Cup abuse, which ultimately strengthened the European team’s resolve to achieve a landmark victory.