Rory McIlroy endured relentless abuse from U.S. fans during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, but PGA of America president Don Rea is now facing calls to resign after appearing to dismiss the ugly behavior.
Team Europe defeated the United States 15-12, with Shane Lowry holing the decisive putt to secure outright victory. However, during the trophy presentation, Rea mistakenly claimed Europe had “retained” the trophy instead of recognizing that they had won it outright. That slip, combined with his comments about fan behavior earlier in the week, has sparked fierce backlash.
Speaking before Sunday’s final round, Rea told the BBC:
“Things like that are going to happen. You’ve got 50,000 people there who are really excited – heck, you can go to a youth soccer game and hear people say the wrong things. We tell fans that booing doesn’t make a player worse; usually, it makes them play better. So our message is: cheer for the Americans like never before and let the players perform.”
When pressed specifically about the abuse directed at McIlroy, Rea added:
“I haven’t heard some of that – I’m sure it’s happened. It happened when we were in Rome on the other side, and Rory understands. I thought he handled the press conferences amazingly. Things like that are going to happen, and I don’t know what was said. But all I know is golf is the engine of good.”
Fans were left furious with what many perceived as a dismissive and tone-deaf response. Social media quickly lit up with demands for his resignation.
“Totally classless speech by saying Europe had RETAINED the Ryder Cup, (they won it). He looked like a bitter little man. Resign!” one fan posted on X.
Another added: “The PGA should have acted quicker, and Rea’s comments were a disgrace. He should step down immediately.”
Others echoed concerns about the sport’s reputation:
“Our game is built on values of respect, integrity, and inclusion – not ignorance or dismissiveness,” one supporter wrote.
Another declared: “That’s an ignorant and insulting response to horrific behavior. Don Rea embarrassed himself and the PGA.”
McIlroy, who was repeatedly targeted by hecklers, was also caught up in a tense moment on Saturday when Shane Lowry had to be restrained after stepping in to defend his teammate. The Northern Irishman’s wife, Erica Stoll, was also subjected to abuse when a fan threw a drink in her direction.
With pressure mounting, many now believe Rea’s leadership is untenable as the fallout from the chaotic Ryder Cup continues.
