Scottie Scheffler, the world’s No. 1 golfer, openly criticized the unruly conduct of some European golf fans shortly before securing his fifth win of the year at the BMW Championship. The 29-year-old American shared his experience with aggressive crowds across the Atlantic, highlighting concerns as the Ryder Cup approaches at Bethpage Black in September. Scheffler’s remarks serve as a reminder that fan interactions can significantly impact players during high-stakes tournaments.
Incident Between Scheffler and MacIntyre Sparks Conversation
During the third round of the BMW Championship, Scheffler played alongside Robert MacIntyre, the 54-hole leader. Tensions flared on the Par 4 14th hole when Scheffler’s successful birdie attempt applied pressure on MacIntyre’s eight-foot par putt. After sinking the putt, MacIntyre gestured toward a fan in the crowd, asking for silence. The Scottish player later explained that the individual had criticized his putt, saying,
he missed it, he pushed it
—comments MacIntyre found unwarranted. This exchange underscored the charged atmosphere between players and spectators during intense competition.
Scheffler Reflects on Hostile Fan Experiences in Northern Ireland
Asked about crowd behavior following his round, Scheffler revealed he had witnessed less considerate fan conduct firsthand, particularly during the Open Championship earlier this year in Northern Ireland. He recalled hearing disparaging remarks while leading the tournament, which contrasted the support he usually encounters.
I didn’t see any of that. I played with Bob when we were in Scotland. I heard some fairly choice words when I was leading the tournament in Ireland,
Scheffler said.
I think it’s part of it. People have a tendency to say things that are dumb. I can think of a few things that were said to me in the final round in Ireland that were very far over the line. If you’re a fan, it’s only going to fire the guy up more, and I think just do your best to behave out there. It can be a little bit silly sometimes.
Understanding the Dynamics of Crowd Behavior in Golf
MacIntyre acknowledged the crowd’s bias, anticipating most fans would support Scheffler. Meanwhile, Scheffler’s comments suggest that complaining about disruptive fans is often futile, given the passion and sometimes drunken behavior that accompany golf spectatorship. His comments imply a need for players to maintain composure regardless of fan provocations.
Scheffler’s statement that some fan remarks
were very far over the line
sheds light on the challenges players face outside of their physical performance. Historically, American golf fans have been criticized for being overly enthusiastic, but Scheffler’s observations reveal that rowdiness can occur on both sides of the Atlantic.
Implications for the Upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black
As the European Ryder Cup team prepares to arrive at Bethpage Black in New York later this month, they are likely to encounter a vociferous American crowd. The home team will benefit from the support of a passionate audience, while European players may face heightened pressure from vocal fans. Scheffler’s remarks set the stage for a highly charged contest where managing fan energy and behavior will be just as crucial as the golf itself.