Golf star Rory McIlroy has revealed that he and his wife, Erica McIlroy, received a “lovely letter of apology” from PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague following abusive incidents at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.

McIlroy, who won The Masters earlier this year to complete his career grand slam, said the hostile crowd atmosphere — which included a thrown beer can that struck his wife — ultimately strengthened the European team during their narrow 15-13 victory over the United States.

McIlroy Praises Sprague’s “Gracious” Apology

“I got a lovely email from Derek Sprague apologising,” McIlroy said ahead of this week’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.
“He couldn’t have been more gracious. He wrote us a lovely letter, which we really appreciated.”

Erica worked with the PGA of America previously, and the McIlroys have a personal relationship with Sprague and his family, making the message particularly meaningful.

The apology comes after McIlroy and several European players were targeted by some American fans during the event. McIlroy, 36, was a main focus of the hostility, which he says he views as a “compliment.”

Hostile Crowds Unified European Team

“I take it as a compliment that they targeted me,” McIlroy reflected.
“But it was a tough week. It made us stronger and it really put our arms around each other.”

McIlroy partnered with Irish golfer Shane Lowry in Friday and Saturday foursomes and fourballs when the crowds were at their most vocal. Lowry also sank the crucial putt that ensured the U.S. could not win the Cup outright — a defining moment of the competition.

“He was like the big brother I never had,” McIlroy added. “And he played incredible golf to keep us in it.”

McIlroy Eyes Race to Dubai Title After Career-Best Season

After what he calls “the season of my golfing life,” including wins at The Masters, Players Championship, Pebble Beach, and the Irish Open, McIlroy now leads the Race to Dubai standings.
Only a narrow margin separates him from English golfer Marco Penge heading into the final two events.

“I remember how hungry I was for my first Race to Dubai back in 2009,” said McIlroy. “That’s exactly how Marco will feel now. It’s going to be an exciting couple of weeks.”

McIlroy also reflected on his return to the Middle East, where his 2025 season began.

“Honestly, in my wildest dreams, I didn’t know a year like this was possible. It’s just been an amazing 10 months.”