An emcee who was working at the Ryder Cup has stepped down after she received backlash for leading a profane chant about Rory McIlroy prior to the second day of the tournament on Saturday.
The PGA of America announced on Sunday that Heather McMahan has resigned after a video that circulated appeared to show her encouraging fans to chant “F— you, Rory!” on Saturday morning. McMahan, who is a comedian and actress, had been working as master of ceremonies at the first tee at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, N.Y.
“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 statement read, via the New York Post.
There were several videos on social media that showed McMahan trying to amp up fans before the morning foursome matches on Saturday. At one point, fans began chanting “F— you, Rory!” It was unclear if McMahan started the chant, but she took part in it and said the phrase over the microphone.
McMahan is the same emcee who tried to lead a different chant that was unsuccessful and led to U.S. fans being ruthlessly mocked.
There were some tense moments between golfers and the gallery during Day 2 of the Ryder Cup. McIlroy in particular had issues with fans heckling him and making noise when he and partner Shane Lowry were addressing their golf balls. McIlroy had a vulgar four-word message for the fans at one point.
