Hatton Advises European Supporters Not to Sink to the Level of American Fans at Upcoming Ryder Cup
Golfer Hatton has publicly urged European supporters to maintain sportsmanship and avoid mirror the behavior of American golf fans when the Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027.
Negative Environment at Recent Event
During the latest tournament, Team Europe competitors faced widespread offensive remarks, with McIlroy and his spouse being targeted with particularly unpleasant treatment.
The English golfer, who achieved a decisive half-point in the Sunday singles that secured the win for Europe, has advised local supporters to refrain from retaliate when the tournament comes to Ireland.
"If it were my choice, and what I say won't actually influence how people behave, I don't believe that negative remarks are appropriate," remarked Hatton.
He added, "Some guys in our squad experienced it a lot worse than others. For me, there were a lot of insults maybe regarding height, hairline, or size, some of which I pretty much joke about myself anyway, so it wasn't as if a surprise."
Call for Civil Environment
Hatton expressed his wish for a respectful atmosphere, noting, "I would much prefer it to be a proper environment. Let the guys play and the superior side prevails – rather than attempting to influence the conclusion by distracting golfers or things like that."
He noted, "I doubt it will be as aggressive as maybe it was last week. I'd like to think that it will be highly civil."
Contrasting Views on Spectator Conduct
The American team leader, Keegan Bradley, who did not denounce the fervent American crowd at the event, stated that conduct at the Bethpage was no different to that in Rome during the previous European hosting.
The English golfer, who remained undefeated for a second successive Ryder Cup, disagrees.
"In my view I don't think they were similar at all," he stated. "Certainly based on what I experienced at Bethpage, I wouldn't say the Italian event comes anywhere near that. I think they are very different."
Official Regret and Reaction
The PGA of America chief executive, Sprague, stated that he plans to contact McIlroy directly to say sorry for what he and his wife faced.
"I intend to sending them an communication with my sincere apologies for what happened," stated the CEO. "There is no room for that in the tournament or in the sport of golf."
He continued, "I am eager to speak with Rory and Erica and really, quite frankly, the whole Team Europe. The complete European team should not have been faced with that. As a result, I am sorry and I plan on saying sorry to them."
The executive also reflected on the history of the event, saying, "At its inception in the 1920s, it was focused on fair play and ethics of the sport, and that's what we desire it to be and stay and it's unfortunate that spectators crossed the line at Bethpage."
European Team Response to Trophy Presentation
Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick called out the organisation's leader, Don Rea, for his churlish response during the trophy presentation after the 15-13 home defeat.
"I don't want to talk for all players but we noticed there was a sense of resentment when they handed over the cup," said Fitzpatrick. "Justin Rose and I made eye contact as though thinking: 'That did not seem like a sincere congratulations.' He mentioned we merely held onto it but in fact we won it."
Upcoming Considerations for Team Europe Leadership
While Hatton and Fitzpatrick resume play currently together with Tommy Fleetwood and Bob McIntyre at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland, Donald is considering whether to remain for a third term as Europe's captain.
Fleetwood feels the position ought to be Donald's if he wants it after back-to-back wins, but that Europe have a suitable replacement in his assistant captain Molinari.
"The ball is likely in Luke's hands and I think he's deserves that," said Fleetwood. "I've spoken to Molinari regarding this several times. I think the regard he receives from his fellow professionals and the players, his successes and his background, I believe contributes significantly to becoming a team leader."