Golf analyst Eamon Lynch criticized the PGA of America for its future plans regarding Bethpage Black, according to Essentially Sports. Lynch’s comments followed troubling crowd behavior during the recent U.S. Open and Ryder Cup events, sparking renewed debate about fan conduct in golf.
What happened
At the U.S. Open in June 2026, Wyndham Clark faced intense hostility from the crowd at Shinnecock Hills. Despite winning the championship, he was booed throughout the day, with spectators openly cheering for his mistakes. Lynch pointed out that this behavior mirrored incidents from the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in September 2025, where European players, including Rory McIlroy, were similarly jeered. “These people do not deserve a major championship,” Lynch stated regarding the PGA’s plans for future events at Bethpage.
Lynch also noted the societal implications of disruptive fan behavior. He asserted, “Long Island golf fans are a stain on the game of golf.” While acknowledging Clark’s checkered reputation, Lynch framed the crowd’s actions as symptomatic of a larger issue within the sport, exacerbated by a rise in gambling interest amongst fans.[3]
Why it matters
The conduct observed at both events raises crucial questions about fan behavior and the expectations of sportsmanship in golf. With the PGA of America scheduled to host the PGA Championship at Bethpage Black in 2033, these incidents have prompted discussion about whether the venue is suitable for major championships.
Background
On September 20, 2025, the Ryder Cup witnessed a stark display of crowd misconduct at Bethpage Black. European players endured heckling, chants, and even a physical incident where a drink was thrown at McIlroy’s wife. Following that, the PGA of America had to increase security measures by bringing in extra State Police to manage the crowds.[1]
On June 16, 2026, during the U.S. Open, Clark found himself facing similar hostility. Fans’ behavior was reportedly fueled by resentment over a past incident where Clark had a locker-room outburst at Oakmont, an event that locals hadn’t forgotten despite his subsequent apology.[2]
What’s next
The PGA of America has not indicated any intention to change plans for the 2033 PGA Championship at Bethpage Black, prompting ongoing discussions about fan behavior and what constitutes acceptable conduct at professional golf events.
