Ryder Cup MC Steps Down After Vulgar Chant Against Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy in action on Saturday at the Ryder Cup

 

Comedian and actress Heather McMahan has stepped down as the master of ceremonies at the Ryder Cup after joining in with a vulgar chant aimed at Europe's Rory McIlroy.

“Look, you know, when you play an away Ryder Cup, it's really, really challenging. It's not for me to say...”

Heather McMahan, an American comedian and actress, has stepped down as an emcee at the Ryder Cup after participating in a vulgar chant targeting Europe's Rory McIlroy. The incident occurred on Saturday at Bethpage Black's first tee, where McMahan led the crowd in a foul-mouthed chant, sparking widespread criticism. The PGA of America confirmed her decision to step down on Sunday.

Rory McIlroy has been a key player for Team Europe, and his focus remains on winning the Ryder Cup. Despite facing hostile crowds in the past, McIlroy is determined to use the energy from the crowd to fuel his performance. He emphasizes finding a balance between engaging with the crowd and maintaining focus on the game.

“Heather McMahan has extended an apology to Rory Mcllroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup,” the PGA of America said in a statement.

The crowd at Bethpage Black has been relentless in their heckling of European players, particularly Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, during the Ryder Cup. Despite the venue's reputation for being tough and rowdy, the abuse hurled at the players has crossed a line, with fans shouting personal insults, making crude remarks, and even raising middle fingers. McIlroy, normally a crowd favorite, was targeted with shouts of “F*** you, Rory” and “Choker” while preparing to hit, with some fans mocking his collapse at Pinehurst earlier this year.

The intense atmosphere has taken a toll on the players, with McIlroy looking drained at times. Despite this, both McIlroy and Lowry have shown resilience and determination, with Lowry saying, “This is what I live for. This is honestly the reason I get up in the morning, for stuff like this.” European captain Luke Donald accused American fans of “crossing the line” with their behavior, highlighting the need for respect and decorum in the game.

 

The best shots from Saturday at Bethpage Black. #BringOutYourBest | @SAP pic.twitter.com/NnZ7mPZHjs

— Ryder Cup (@rydercup) September 28, 2025

After the match, Rory McIlroy was questioned about the crowd's behavior, which had become increasingly hostile throughout the tournament. The Northern Irishman faced relentless heckling from American fans, with some spectators making personal jabs about his life and referencing past disappointments on the golf course, such as his collapse at Pinehurst earlier this year.

“Look, you know, when you play an away Ryder Cup, it's really, really challenging. It's not for me to say. People can be their own judge of whether they took it too far or not,” said McIlroy, who this year became only the sixth player to complete the career Grand Slam of golf's four majors.