What began as spirited chanting between rival supporters of Team USA and Team Europe quickly escalated into heated confrontations, with sections of the crowd becoming unruly. Witnesses reported that a number of scuffles broke out, prompting officers and event staff to rush into the stands to separate fans.
Images from the event showed a heavy police presence, with officers forming a barrier between opposing groups of supporters. Several fans were seen being escorted away from the grandstands as tensions threatened to boil over.
The Ryder Cup is renowned for its passionate atmosphere, but organizers have faced increasing challenges in managing rowdy crowds at Bethpage Black this year. The incident follows a string of controversies across the weekend, including complaints from European players about fan abuse and concerns raised over the level of security in place.
Tournament officials have yet to issue a full statement, but early reports suggest that a number of arrests were made and some fans were ejected from the venue.
The flare-up casts an unfortunate shadow over what has otherwise been a fiercely contested Ryder Cup, with both teams locked in battle on the course while emotions continue to spill over off it.
Calls are now growing for stricter crowd control measures, with former players and pundits warning that the Ryder Cup risks losing its unique spirit if disorder in the stands is not addressed.
Despite the disruption, play continued as scheduled, though the tense atmosphere around the course was impossible to ignore.
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