In a dramatic turn of events, tensions flared during the Ryder Cup in Rome when Rory McIlroy confronted Patrick Cantlay’s caddy Joe LaCava after a heated exchange on the 18th green. the clubhouse. Teammate Shane Lowry had to restrain McIlroy and guide him to a waiting car.
The incident happened after Cantlay hit a long putt that earned a crucial point in the fourballs for the United States team. McIlroy believed LaCava crossed the line by waving his cap in celebration, in a mocking reference to Cantlay’s hatless appearance. Although both McIlroy and his playing partner, Matt Fitzpatrick, had putts left that could have tied the match, McIlroy was hurt by LaCava’s actions.
European captain Luke Donald acknowledged that McIlroy felt he had crossed a line and expressed his intention to discuss the incident with him later. Donald highlighted the passion and energy shown at the Ryder Cup, but stressed the importance of playing with respect.
McIlroy, when asked about the incident, stated that it will only increase his motivation to succeed in future matches. For his part, Cantlay offered few details about what happened next on the 18th hole, only praising LaCava’s skills as a caddy.
The confrontation capped off a busy day, with Europe leading Team USA by a score of 10.5-5.5. Although it is not yet fully understood what happened in the parking lot, the two team captains expressed their belief that the situation has calmed down.
