Tyrrell Hatton has called on European supporters not to lower themselves to the level of the US crowd at Bethpage when the Ryder Cup is staged at Adare Manor in 2027. The Englishman, who secured the decisive half-point in the Sunday singles, said insults were not the way forward and that he would prefer a respectful atmosphere where the best team wins.
Hatton was among those subjected to abusive behaviour in New York, with teammates Rory McIlroy and his wife Erica receiving particularly vile treatment. Hatton revealed he faced taunts about his height, hairline and weight, but insisted such comments were nothing new. He expressed hope that the atmosphere in Ireland would be less hostile, saying the events at Bethpage were far removed from the 2023 match in Rome.
US captain Keegan Bradley had refused to condemn the passionate home fans, claiming behaviour was no different from Rome. Hatton disagreed, stating the two were not close. Meanwhile, PGA of America chief executive Derek Sprague said he planned to email McIlroy and the entire European team with heartfelt apologies, acknowledging that people crossed the line and that the Ryder Cup should be about sportsmanship.
Matt Fitzpatrick separately criticised the organisation's president, Don Rea, for a bitter reaction to the 15-13 defeat at the trophy presentation. Fitzpatrick said he and Justin Rose exchanged glances, feeling the congratulation was not heartfelt. Rea had commented that Europe only retained the trophy, but Fitzpatrick noted they actually won it.
As Hatton and Fitzpatrick return to action at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland, Luke Donald is considering a third term as Europe's captain. Tommy Fleetwood believes Donald has earned the right to decide, while citing Francesco Molinari as a ready-made successor given his respect among players and his experience.
