Fitzpatrick’s parents avoid Ryder Cup over abusive fans

Matt Fitzpatrick, a member of Europe, claims that his parents, in part due to abusive American fans they encountered four years ago, have decided not to compete at Bethpage.

In the days leading up to the biennial three-day event, the level of partisan support at the New York course this weekend and whether it will cross the line have been a hot topic of conversation.

When the contest was last played on American soil at Whistling Straits, Fitzpatrick’s parents, Russell and Susan, heard objectionable remarks toward Europeans, Fitzpatrick recently told the Times.

Another significant reason for his parents’ absence, according to Fitzpatrick’s wife, is that they will play alongside him in the Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews the following week.

The Englishman, who is making his fourth Ryder Cup appearance on Thursday, said at Bethpage, “There is, obviously, a little bit of] the previous abuse] they didn’t have a great experience in Whistling Straits.

The other thing is that they didn’t really want to ruin the Dunhill experience because that’s obviously unique.

There is no disputing that they had negative experiences in the past, but it is impossible to imagine that this has to be the case.

The European team’s attitude toward them during this week’s practice sessions, which were largely respectful and admirative, has been largely polite and encouraging.

When accompanied by an adult who pays for a $255 (£190) ticket, children under the age of 15 are given free admission.

American player Collin Morikawa described the lead-up as being “tame” and expressed the hope that “Friday is just absolute chaos” from the home fans.

Ireland’s Shane Lowry claimed that his wife had been subjected to “dog’s abuse” from American fans following Europe’s crushing defeat in Whistling Straits in 2021.

Lowry made an effort on Thursday to avoid any incendiary comments, just like Fitzpatrick and in keeping with the European team’s careful PR strategy.

Going there was a surprise surprise because that was my first Ryder Cup experience, and it was obviously my first away one, according to the 2019 Open champion.

However, it never comes as bad when you’re ready for something. I think the New Yorkers have enjoyed themselves so far this week.

It’s obvious that practice days are coming up, but it’s also a little bit lighter. It is what it is. The Americans must have had a bad time at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, which I’m pretty sure was not.

You must be yourself, conduct your own business, and make the most of it. You let it help you rather than hinder you.

“I believe we are mentally and physically prepared for it all.” We’ll see”.

There is anticipated to be a noticeable change in the American fans’ attitudes toward the visitors when the action begins for real on Friday.

Sean Mateiko, a Long Islander who was present on Wednesday’s practice day with his two children, told BBC Sport, “We’re not going to attack the Europeans today. Let’s wait for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.”

Other partisan home supporters have argued that Europeans must have “some thick skin” in order for Americans to “not hold back.”