FORMER Team USA Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson has apologised for the New York crowd’s heckling of Europe stars.
Players including Rory McIlroy were made to withstand a hostile environment at Bethpage Black.
McIlroy, 36, told a heckling fan to “shut the f*** up” during a tense exchange on Saturday.
His wife Erica Stoll was then shockingly struck by a drink the following day.
Europe held a commanding lead after the first two days of action.
The USA launched an improbably late fight back, but went on to lose 15-13.
Eight-time major champion Watson, who captained the Americans to Ryder Cup victory at The Belfry 32 years ago, was gracious in defeat – while also slamming his own team’s rowdy supporters.
The 76-year-old wrote on X, “I’d like to congratulate @RyderCupEurope on their victory.
“Your team play the first few days was sensational.
“More importantly, I’d like to apologize for the rude and mean-spirited behavior from our American crowd at Bethpage.
“As a former player, Captain and as an American, I am ashamed of what happened.”
McIlroy was asked about the hostile crowd on Saturday.
“You do have to focus on the task at hand,” the Northern Irishman said.
“I think in the team format, foursomes and fourballs you can stick together with your partner which makes it easier.”
McIlroy had to put up with chants of “f*** you” Rory throughout the weekend.
While he and wife Erica were both showered with personal abuse.
‘A VERY, VERY STRONG WOMAN’
Following Europe’s victory, McIlroy added, “It should be off-limits, but obviously it wasn’t this week.
“Erica is fine. She’s a very, very strong woman.
“She handled everything this week with class, poise and dignity like she always has.
“I love her and we’re going to have a good time celebrating tonight.”
McIlroy’s pal Shane Lowry, who also had a bust up with fans, added, “I was out there for two days with Erica McIlroy, and the amount of abuse that she received was astonishing.
“The way she was out there supporting her husband and supporting her team was unbelievable, and kudos to her for that.”