ESPN News Services
Sep 28, 2025, 10:43 AM ETOpen Extended Reactions
A master of ceremonies has stepped down from her role at the Ryder Cup after joining the Bethpage Black crowd in directing expletive-laced chants toward Rory McIlroy.
In a statement released Sunday morning, the PGA of America announced that American comedian and actress Heather McMahan will not return to emcee at the first tee at Bethpage Black.
“Heather McMahan has extended an apology to Rory McIlroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup,” said the PGA of America, which runs the event.
Video footage taken Saturday morning appeared to show McMahan riling up fans at the first tee by shouting, “F— you, Rory,” into the microphone.
European golfers, who have dominated the first two days of the competition, were heckled repeatedly by the rowdy Bethpage Black crowd Saturday — and McIlroy caught the brunt of the abuse.
During morning foursome play, McIlroy told spectators to “shut the f— up,” after being yelled at while lining up to hit a shot. The reigning Masters champion also had to back off his ball multiple times on the fourth green during afternoon four-ball play because of yelling