Video emerges of PGA president rapping Eminem at Ryder Cup hotel as chaos swirled around event
Picture a crowded hotel lobby in Long Island, the buzz of a major golf event humming in the background, and a sudden burst of rap music cutting through the chatter. That’s what led to a stir at last month’s Ryder Cup.
PGA of America President Don Rea was heard singing Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” on a microphone while players’ families gathered near a stadium‑style screen. The moment came just hours after a beer was thrown at Erica Stoll, Rory McIlroy’s wife, as she walked the 17th hole on Bethpage Black to root for Team Europe.
The rally on the roof of the hotel had a very real significance. Team USA had trailed 11½–4½ at the time Rea hit the stage, and the American side was trying to claw back. Within a day the Americans fell short, and the European squad capped a 15–13 victory that sent the Ryder Cup fans back to cheering from the stands.
The incident was not just a playful break in the tension. The PGA had already faced criticism for the heavy heckling aimed at McIlroy. In a September 29 interview with the BBC, Don Rea compared the 50,000‑strong crowds to a “youth soccer game” and said he hadn’t heard the “heckling” that was reportedly directed at the Northern Irish player. The comments drew ire from players, fans, and fellow professionals, including England’s Matthew Fitzpatrick.
When the backlash swelled, Rea stepped forward with an apology. In a letter to the golf community, he wrote, “Some fan behaviour crossed the line. It was disrespectful and inappropriate, and not a reflection of the PGA of America or its professionals.” He added that his earlier remarks were misinterpreted and that he was sorry for any shame it might have caused.
The fallout went beyond the lodge. After reporters captured a passionate chant from the crowd, comedian‑emcee Heather McMahan relinquished her duties at the Ryder Cup. She admitted she had tried to calm the cheering, but the “f‑‑‑ you, Rory” refrain slipped past her control. McMahan said she’d already apologized to McIlroy and the European squad.
Later, newly‑appointed PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague met with McIlroy and his wife to address the situation personally. Sprague, who stepped into the role early this year, underlined the organization’s stance against any form of harassment at the event.
With the Ryder Cup set to travel to Europe in 2027, the incident serves as a reminder of the high stakes and high emotions that turn the competition into more than a game – it’s a global festival of sport and sportmanship, where the words we choose can echo long after the final score card is filled.
Source: New York Post
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