Golf Channel’s Eamon Lynch expressed his disapproval of Long Island fans following the U.S. Open held at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. Lynch ardently believes that major golf tournaments should steer clear of Long Island, New York, based on the fans’ behavior during the recent event.
During his post-U.S. Open commentary, Lynch labeled Long Island fans as detrimental to the game of golf. He recounted that patrons were ejected by authorities for heckling Wyndham Clark, the tournament leader. Fans within the crowd shouted discouraging remarks such as “Don’t choke Wyndham” and “Get in the bunker.” Lynch emphasized that these actions are unique to Long Island, citing that similar misconduct doesn’t surface at other courses in New York, such as Winged Foot or Baltusrol.
Wyndham Clark’s experience became a focal point for Lynch’s argument against holding events on Long Island. Clark, known for his fiery demeanor, was treated like an antagonist by some fans despite leading the tournament. While he has been notable for his own transgressions, including an infamous club-throwing incident that led to a ban from Oakmont due to property damage, Lynch maintained that fan decorum, especially during major championships, should be upheld.
The PGA of America’s plan to host the PGA Championship at Bethpage Black in 2033 raises concerns for Lynch, who recalled incidents during the Ryder Cup where taunting from fans disrupted Team Europe and its player Rory McIlroy. He cited the throwing of a beer at McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, as particularly egregious.
“Golf should maintain higher standards,” McIlroy affirmed when commenting on the behavior of fans during the Ryder Cup. He said the sport should never accept the type of behavior exhibited that week.
In contemplating solutions, Lynch pointed to the model used by Augusta National Golf Club during The Masters, which incorporates strict policies such as banning phones and maintaining zero tolerance for inappropriate conduct. Lynch referenced the importance of adhering to these standards to ensure respect is maintained within the sport.
Despite Clark’s controversial history, Lynch’s critique focused squarely on the Long Island fan base’s behavior. He described some fans as privileged individuals who purchase tickets impulsively and fail to consider the repercussions of their actions.
As the debate continues, Lynch calls for the golfing world to embrace Augusta’s model of maintaining discipline among spectators to preserve tradition and decorum.
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