Ryder Cup emcee steps down after leading offensive chants

Field Level Media|published: Sun 28th September, 14:02 2025

Sep 15, 2024; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Heather McMahan at the 76th Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theater on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 in Los Angeles. Mandatory Credit: Kevork Djansezian-USA TODAY

Comedian and actress Heather McMahan has stepped down from her role as master of ceremonies at the Ryder Cup after she joined the crowd at Bethpage Black in New York in an expletive-laden chant directed at Rory McIlroy.

"Heather McMahan has extended an apology to Rory McIlroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup," the PGA of America said in a statement released to multiple media outlets.

While hyping up the crowd on Saturday, McMahan reportedly said, "(Expletive) you, Rory."

McIlroy told spectators to "shut the (expletive) up" after being shouted at while sizing up a shot. He also backed off his ball multiple times during afternoon four-ball play because of unruly fans.

"I don't mind them having a go at us," McIlroy said after his Saturday morning match. "Like, that's to be expected. I mean, that's what an away Ryder Cup is. Whenever they are still doing it while you are over the ball and trying to hit your shot, that's the tough thing."

The Europeans play Sunday with a massive 11.5-4.5 lead and need 14 points to retain the Ryder Cup.

--Field Level Media

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