Category: international rivalry

Keegan Bradley defends US Ryder Cup fans as just ‘passionate’ amid chaos

Captain rejects suggestions his team stoked up troubleI dont appreciate those words that you just saidKeegan Bradley refused to condemn American Ryder Cup fans after the grim scenes that formed a backdrop to day two at Bethpage Black. Bradley went so far as to curiously suggest spectators had been violent during the Ryder Cup in Rome two years ago. Bradleys approach was in stark contrast to that of his European counterpart, Luke Donald, who believes some those in the galleries engaged in unacceptable conduct. Europe lead their hosts 1112-412 heading into the final day. Just as striking on Saturday, though, was a series of unacceptable shouts towards European players. These were personal especially in the direction of Rory McIlroy and regularly delivered as golfers were preparing to play. McIlroy and Shane Lowry completed a fourball victory with state troopers lining holes.