Stefan Schauffele, father of Ryder Cup star Xander Schauffele, has announced he will boycott this weekend's tournament at Bethpage Black, citing disgust at Rory McIlroy's conduct during the previous edition in Rome.
The 60-year-old German-born coach, who has been a key figure in his son's career, told The Times that the Ryder Cup has become increasingly toxic. He recalled incidents from the 2021 event at Whistling Straits, where Shane Lowry's wife was verbally abused, and criticised McIlroy's altercation with Patrick Cantlay's caddie, Joe LaCava, in Rome.
McIlroy confronted LaCava after Cantlay holed a putt on the 18th hole, with LaCava celebrating by waving his hat. McIlroy believed the caddie's actions interfered with his preparation to putt. The Northern Irishman later clashed with Justin Thomas' caddie in the car park, overshadowing Europe's 16.5-11.5 victory.
Stefan Schauffele expressed concern about the atmosphere in New York, saying: 'I'm afraid of what's going to happen in New York. It's only going to get worse. It's ruined my appetite for the Ryder Cup. It becomes unwatchable.'
Despite his father's absence, Xander Schauffele will focus on helping Team USA secure a third consecutive home win. He will partner Patrick Cantlay in Friday morning's foursomes against Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland.
