Rory McIlroy has been working hard at Shinnecock Hills this week ahead of the U.S. Open.
McIlroy loves playing golf in New York and has often talked up the quality of the golf courses in the Empire State.
The Northern Irishman almost always receives a really good reception in New York as well.
However, there obviously was a big exception to that rule.
Back in September, Rory McIlroy received horrific abuse at Bethpage Black during Ryder Cup week.
McIlroy’s treatment from fans at Bethpage soured the Ryder Cup to an extent and definitely put a dark cloud over the event.
He’ll certainly be hoping to receive more support this week at Shinnecock Hills during the U.S. Open.
Rory McIlroy’s thoughts on New York fans after Ryder Cup at Bethpage
McIlroy addressed the media at Shinnecock Hills on Tuesday morning, ahead of the U.S. Open.
He was asked how he now feels about the abuse he received at Bethpage Black last year.
“Look, I love playing around New York. I love playing in this area. It’s got some of the best golf in the world,“ he replied.
“This is a different — like the Ryder Cup is us versus them, very partisan, very — like it’s just a different beast. So, yeah, I have no — yeah, was it a rough week for me at times? Absolutely. But it is what it is. If that’s a price to pay to live the life that I’m living, then I’m okay with that.“
He was then asked how the fans have treated him this week, given the abuse he received at Bethpage Black last year.
“Yeah, it was great,“ McIlroy said.
“It was amazing. Look, New York is New York, and they’re going to make their voices heard, but that’s a good thing. That’s a good atmosphere to play in.“
Rory McIlroy will be supported to the hilt at Shinnecock Hills
McIlroy is actually a hugely popular figure in the United States.
He is adored by the vast majority of golf fans worldwide.
However, Ryder Cup weeks seem to bring out the worst in some fans.
If McIlroy comes head-to-head with an American player this week at the U.S. Open, he obviously won’t receive the most cheers.
However, there is no doubt that the six-time major champion will be supported well this week at Shinnecock Hills.
