McIlroy's heated bust-up with Team USA
VIDEO footage has emerged showing the reason for Rory McIlroy's heated bust-up with Team USA after Day Two of the Ryder Cup. McIlroy had to be held back from Team USA members and bundled into a car by teammate Shane Lowry following a dramatic last hole defeat yesterday evening.
Caddie Joe LaCava's actions caught on video
Patrick Cantlay’s caddie Joe LaCava was caught on video clearly trying to distract McIlroy as he lined up a putt on the 18th hole. LaCava was seen taking off his cap and waving it at McIlroy as they engaged in a heated conversation on the green. Fans on Twitter were appalled by LaCava's antics with one saying: "A caddie trying to put a player off in the #RyderCup. Told to stop and move away first, then comes back for seconds waving his hat. There’s simply no way to defend that kind of behaviour from Joey."
McIlroy's reaction
McIlroy reacted angrily after being taunted by LaCava. He tried to defuse the situation but later blew up at the end of play. In the heated bust-up as McIlroy prepared to leave for the team hotel, he was heard shouting at Justin Thomas' bagman Jim 'Bones' McKay: "It’s a f*****g disgrace, he can’t get away with it."
Backlash from fans
Fans on Twitter expressed their outrage at the incident, with one user suggesting that LaCava should be kicked out of the competition. Another user criticized the behavior as "cheating," while a third called it "unprofessional."
Europe's position in the competition and McIlroy's state of mind
Europe goes into the final day needing just four victories from the 12 singles matches to win back the Ryder Cup trophy. Europe captain Luke Donald plans to ensure McIlroy is in the right frame of mind for today's singles. He stated that he will talk with McIlroy when he gets back and that he wants the players to play with passion, energy, and respect.
