Why comedian Heather McMahan apologized after targeting Rory McIlroy at the Ryder Cup (Image Via Getty)

Heather McMahan, 38, a comedian and the host for the 2025 Ryder Cup, apologized after an incident with golfer Rory McIlroy, 36. It happened on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Bethpage Black in New York while McIlroy was teeing off. Video from the event shows McMahan shouting, “F*** you, Rory,” and the crowd repeating it. The video went viral on social media and garnered considerable criticism from followers and sports commentators. Following the outcry, the PGA of America stated on September 28 that McMahan had stepped down from her hosting responsibilities and apologized to Ryder Cup Europe and Rory McIlroy.

Heather McMahan was supposed to host the opening tee-off and get the crowd excited. Instead, she encouraged people to heckle Rory McIlroy, which turned into a vulgar chant. The PGA of America said, “Heather has extended an apology to Rory McIlroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup.”After the event, McMahan shared lighter moments on social media, cheering for her college football team, the University of Mississippi. She posted videos supporting the Ole Miss Rebels, showing a more relaxed side after a stressful day. She hasn’t made any other statements about the chant or the incident.Also Read: Why Paige Spiranac Wasn’t Surprised By Fans Heckling Rory McIlroy At Bethpage

Caught in the middle of the disturbance were Rory McIlroy and his wife, Erica Stoll. A fan even tossed a beer can that struck Erica Stoll on McIlroy’s tee-off on September 27. McIlroy remained concentrated and aggressively reacted to the hecklers but kept playing his game. The PGA of America increased security and expelled unruly supporters to safeguard both participants and spectators. Even amid chaos, McIlroy kept his calm and professionalism, which received honors from fans, experts, and colleagues. Though Team Europe won 15–13 over Team USA to end the Ryder Cup, the McMahan incident sparked arguments about fan behavior and how Events must be handled. Organizers must create them respectful and safe.