After the first day, Rory McIlroy‘s unexpected flipping the bird left the golf world in a state of shock. Fans were criticizing the golfer for his temperament, recalling all the instances where McIlroy had lost his temper. Well, that was on the first day, but now, on the second day, as the tournament became more tense, fans started to sledge even more, which left the golfer crossing the line of profanity. Sharing the update, Kyle Porter has reported that the Northern Irishman this time used abusive language, saying, “Shut the f*** up.” The fans at Bethpage Black have been rowdy, but responding negatively to a player of great stature is unethical. At 2 Up, McIlroy hit into the right rough and was prepping to hit from there with his pre-shot routine. But that’s when the golfer faces trouble, when the fans start shouting. Well, it was not just the Europeans, as Sam Burns also raised his hand to quiet the crowd on Saturday. But for McIlroy, the gesture was nothing close to calmness.

Talking about the issue, McIlroy said,

“In between shots, say whatever you want to me.” He even asked for the same respect as the home team, saying, “You gave us the respect to let us hit shots, and give us the same chance that the Americans have, I guess.” Well, not only did McIlroy face this issue, but Robert MacIntyre was left in a regretful position after the mishap. Earlier, Robert MacIntyre faced the distraction of fans, as he was disturbed in the middle of his swing. Furthermore, that resulted in a bunker shot that missed the opportunity to tie the match.

However, unlike MacIntyre, the golfer has replied to the fan with his club and done his job perfectly. McIlroy and Fleetwood were playing against Harris English and Collin Morikawa, which showcased sheer dominance. The European side ended the match with a 3 & 2 score, offering the American duo their second foursome loss on the second day. However, despite his outstanding performance, McIlroy has received mixed reactions from fans. After the news came out with the post, fans started slamming the golfer for his move.

Fans offended by Rory McIlroy’s move, while some offer support

Although McIlroy’s move on the first day had no clarification, now, with his frustration visible, he has spoken about it. But despite that, he has been criticised by some.

One fan wrote,

“Class, as always.” There have been many instances where the European team players were involved in arguments. Earlier, Seve Ballesteros engaged in heated debates with fellow players on three separate occasions, across three different editions. And now, Rory McIlroy has extended the list, calling a sarcastic snub from fans.

Another joined,

“He’s insufferable.” As it happened twice, and both times the golfer shared frustration unlike any other European player. MacIntyre, despite the personal sledge, kept playing without replying to fans. However, with the Northern Irishman now offering a direct snub, it has left the fans with a negative impression of him.

Even Fried Egg Golf questioned the move, writing,

“Does this take Rory out of the running for the Nicklaus-Jacklin Award presented by Aon?” The famous 1969 concession, where Jack Nicklaus conceded Tony Jacklin a short putt, inspired the award. The symbolization of sportsmanship and respect is still amplified with the prize. However, now that McIlroy has been caught using profanity twice, it has undoubtedly affected his chances of winning.

While other fans joined in support of his performance, one said,

“And then stuffed it to 3 feet.” And another joined writing, “ND THEN DRILLED IT LEGEND👊👊👊👊.” Well, apart from the fan criticizing the golfer, some praised him for his performance. The golfer marked his second win in foursomes on the second day, and just after the interaction, he converted the putt unlike MacIntyre.

With the majority of fans opposed to McIlroy’s gesture, he will be under scrutiny for the remainder of the tournament. Possibly, it might invite more sledging for McIlroy. What are your thoughts on Rory McIlroy’s move? Share with us in the comments below.

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