Rory McIlroy receives surprising reaction from US golf fans as he returns for the first time since furious Ryder Cup showdown
Rory McIlroy was spared more abuse from American fans on his return to US soil for the first time since the Ryder Cup.
The Northern Irishman and his wife Erica were subjected to vile taunts and heckling as he led Europe to victory over the USA at Bethpage Black in September.
McIlroy was called a ‘f****t’ and barracked about his private life, while Erica was branded a ‘wh**e’ and even struck by a drink thrown from the crowd.
The Northern Irishman recently admitted the Ryder Cup was a ‘rough week’ but there was no hostility on Wednesday night when he renewed his rivalry with Scottie Scheffler in Florida in front of a crowd that included Donald Trump’s son, Eric.
The world No 1 and No 2 captained teams at the first ever ‘Golf Channel Games’ – a series of fast-paced challenges under the lights at Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter.
There was a distinct Ryder Cup feel to both teams, with McIlroy joined by Europe captain Luke Donald and teammate Shane Lowry and Scheffler reunited with US captain Keegan Bradley and teammate Sam Burns.
Rory McIlroy avoided more abuse on his return to the US for the first time since the Ryder Cup
Rory McIlroy was subjected to vile abuse by American fans at the Ryder Cup in September
McIlroy and his wife Erica Stoll were both taunted during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black
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But this time McIlroy was given a warm reception by the fans in Florida.
The Northern Irishman is typically one of the most popular players among American supporters and normal service was resumed on Wednesday night.
Team McIlroy and Scheffler competed in five challenges that included a timed driving competition and a relay which saw them attempt to complete a hole in as few shots and as little time as possible.
The Northern Irishman branded the event ‘absolutely incredible’ and ‘so much fun.’
Since the Ryder Cup, McIlroy has played in India, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Australia. But this marked his first event back in the United States.
