Morikawa: 'Chaos' talk not cause of Ryder trouble

Collin Morikawa says US Ryder Cup fans “crossed the line” after hostile behaviour at Bethpage Black, but rejects blame for stoking it. Europe held on to win. Betting takeaway: punters might favour Europe in future away Ryder Cup markets and back players with strong mental resilience in prop markets, while being cautious on US player-over props under volatile home crowds.

Morikawa: US Ryder Cup Fans "Crossed the Line" but Denies Responsibility

Collin Morikawa has condemned the behaviour of some US spectators at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, saying the crowd "crossed the line" while insisting his pre-event comments calling for "chaos" were taken out of context. The two-time major champion said he meant energy, not rudeness, and denied that a single word could have incited the level of abuse witnessed during the three-day contest.

Hostile Crowds and On-Course Incidents

European players endured frequent insults, jeering during shots and at least one alarming incident in which a beer was thrown in the direction of Rory McIlroy's wife. The intensity of the galleries repeatedly disrupted the typical decorum of match play and became a major talking point as the event progressed.

PGA of America Response and Security Measures

The PGA of America moved to bolster security as tensions escalated, and the organisation's leadership issued apologies to players affected by the misconduct. Despite the charged atmosphere, Team Europe withstood a late American surge to secure the Ryder Cup victory on hostile soil.

Morikawa's Comments in Japan

Speaking ahead of the PGA Tour event in Yokohama, Morikawa reiterated he wanted energy, not hostility. "I think we've taken what I said a little out of context," he said, adding that golfers hear nearly everything from nearby crowds and that a clearer line needs to be drawn between passionate support and outright abuse.

Betting Implications: What Punters Should Consider

Bookmakers and bettors should note the potential psychological and momentum effects hostile environments can have on players. Key considerations: - Market movement: Future Ryder Cup and away-team markets may slightly favour Europe given their proven resilience in adverse crowds. - Player props: Consider backing players with demonstrated mental toughness; be cautious with US player-over props that could be affected by pressure or distractions. - Match-betting: In volatile atmospheres, match-play swings increase; smaller, value-driven match bets and in-play markets may present opportunities.

Collin Morikawa admitted the behavior of American fans at the Ryder Cup "crossed the line" but does not believe he was partly to blame for inflaming the atmosphere.

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