Rory McIlroy of Team Europe shows his reaction on the 14th green during the Saturday afternoon four-ball matches at the 2025 Ryder Cup held at Bethpage Black Golf Course on September 27, 2025.
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The PGA of America announced on Sunday that the Ryder Cup’s event host has resigned following incidents of heckling and profanity directed at players during the weekend’s matches.
Heather McMahan, an actress and comedian who served as the emcee for the opening tee at Bethpage Black Golf Course in Long Island, New York, was captured on social media videos shouting offensive remarks aimed at golfer Rory McIlroy.
In the recordings, McMahan can be heard exclaiming, “F– you, Rory,” which was then echoed by some members of the audience.
According to the PGA of America, McMahan has issued an apology to McIlroy and the European Ryder Cup team. NPR reached out to McMahan’s representatives for further comment on Sunday.
This year’s Ryder Cup has seen moments of intense fan involvement overshadowing the competition, as the American and European teams face off in one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
McIlroy has been the primary target of hostile chants, with some spectators even directing insults at his wife throughout the event. At one point, McIlroy responded to the crowd’s provocations by telling them to “shut the f– up,” as captured on social media and live broadcasts. He also refused to continue putting until the disruptive behavior ceased.
Heather McMahan attending the Marie Claire Power Play event at The St. Regis Atlanta on May 15, 2025.
Carol Lee Rose/Getty Images for Marie Claire
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Carol Lee Rose/Getty Images for Marie Claire
Reflecting on the atmosphere, McIlroy told BBC Sport on Saturday, “I expect some banter when playing away, that’s part of the Ryder Cup experience. But when the heckling continues while you’re preparing to take your shot, that’s where it becomes difficult. It’s fine to have a go between shots, but we deserve the respect to play without distractions, just like the home team.”
Security measures were heightened after two fans were removed from the event on Saturday following a verbal dispute, according to Beau Duffy, a spokesperson for the New York State Police, who spoke with NPR.
“Additional State Troopers were deployed along the course to ensure the safety of players and attendees. We will continue to adjust security as necessary,” Duffy added.
In a separate incident, a man from Westbury, New York, was charged with two misdemeanors for unlawfully taking a golf cart used during the tournament, including unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and possession of stolen property, Duffy confirmed.
Luke Donald, captain of Team Europe, addressed the crowd’s conduct during a Saturday press briefing, stating that some fan behavior had “crossed the line.”
“The environment was loud and boisterous, which is expected, but personal insults and disruptive noises during players’ swings or routines are unacceptable,” Donald explained. “While this has occurred in past Ryder Cups, it’s something we prepared for, and I believe the players have managed it well.”
Meanwhile, Team USA captain Keegan Bradley defended the fans’ passion during the same press conference.
“The fans are passionate, especially with the home team trailing significantly,” Bradley said. “New York fans have generally been respectful, though a few have crossed boundaries, which is unfortunate. I was pleased to see our players trying to calm those individuals. Ultimately, it’s on us-we haven’t performed to the level the fans expect, and their frustration is understandable.”
As of Sunday afternoon, Europe led the Ryder Cup with a score of 12 to 5 over the United States.
Despite the ongoing tension, the crowd continued to direct loud jeers and shouts at McIlroy during his match against Scottie Scheffler on Sunday, even as he attempted to putt.
