Justin Thomas has acknowledged that the New York crowd may turn against the American team if they start losing the Ryder Cup this week. In contrast, Luke Donald’s European team initiated a friendly gesture by signing autographs for the local fans today.
Rory McIlroy recently disclosed that their team has been preparing for potential fan negativity by using virtual reality headsets to simulate possible heckling. Despite Team USA receiving support from President Trump on the opening day, Thomas emphasized the risk of facing criticism from New York spectators if they fail to reclaim the trophy.
Thomas, a two-time Major champion, highlighted the unique expectations of New York, emphasizing their desire for victory in championships. He expressed the team’s commitment to providing reasons for the crowd to cheer enthusiastically.
Regarding potential fan behavior, Thomas mentioned that while constructive criticism is acceptable if the team underperforms, personal attacks on loved ones could escalate tensions.
Patrick Cantlay, sporting a Team USA hat, addressed the controversy surrounding player payments by announcing his decision to donate his earnings to charity. This announcement comes as all US players will receive a stipend, with Cantlay opting to contribute his share to charitable causes.
Additionally, Cantlay clarified previous speculations about not wearing the Team USA hat in Rome, stating that the issue was resolved this year, allowing him to represent the team without concerns.
In a reminiscent approach, Bernhard Langer’s team adopted a similar public relations tactic during Donald’s Ryder Cup debut in 2004, engaging with US fans to foster a respectful environment.
European captain Langer emphasized respect towards the American crowd, highlighting the team’s focus on showcasing their best performance and values while acknowledging the importance of fan support. He commended his players for their commitment to entertaining the audience and delivering outstanding golf.
Overall, both teams are gearing up for an intense Ryder Cup battle, with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship, performance, and fan engagement.