Rory McIlroy has revealed that he received a “lovely” letter of apology from PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague following the abuse he and his wife, Erica, faced during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage.
Speaking ahead of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the Masters champion said Sprague personally reached out after promising to do so in the aftermath of the September showdown, where Europe edged the U.S. 15–13.
“I got a lovely email from Derek apologising,” McIlroy told BBC Sport. “Erica worked with Derek at the PGA of America back in the day, so we know him and his wife quite well. He couldn’t have been more gracious or apologetic, and he wrote us a lovely letter we really appreciated.”
During the heated contest, Erica McIlroy was struck by a tossed beer can, and Rory endured verbal abuse from sections of the American crowd. Yet, McIlroy insists the hostility only strengthened Europe’s resolve.
“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me,” he said. “It was a tough week, but it galvanised us and brought us closer together.”
McIlroy, who partnered Shane Lowry through the most intense sessions, credited his teammate for composure and brilliance. “Shane was like the big brother I never had. He played incredible golf and holing that final putt was the perfect end.”
Despite the controversy, McIlroy prefers to focus on Europe’s brilliance and his own stellar season — crowned by his long-awaited Masters victory and wins at The Players, Pebble Beach, and the Irish Open.
Currently leading the Race to Dubai standings, McIlroy now eyes the Abu Dhabi title and a record seventh crown in Dubai next week. “It’s been the season of my life,” he reflected. “Honestly, I couldn’t have imagined a better ten months.”
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