Controversy Over Long Island Golf Fans After U.S. Open

Golf Channel analyst Eamon Lynch has stirred debate following the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. He argues that a golf major should not return to Long Island, New York, citing fan behavior as the reason. Lynch claims that Long Island golf enthusiasts tarnish the sport’s reputation.

During a segment, Lynch heavily criticized the local spectators after Wyndham Clark secured his second U.S. Open title. He highlighted the disruptive crowd behavior at Shinnecock Hills, where authorities had to remove some fans for heckling. Shouts of ‘Don’t choke Wyndham’ and ‘Get in the bunker’ directed at Clark were among the issues noted.

Lynch stated, ‘Long Island golf fans are a stain on the game of golf.’

Lynch emphasized that this problem is not common across all New York courses, mentioning that facilities like Winged Foot and Baltusrol do not face similar issues. He called for holding Long Island accountable for repetitive and predictable disturbances.

Further incidents at Bethpage Black, including Rory McIlroy’s altercations with hecklers during the Ryder Cup, underscore Lynch’s point. McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, was hit with a beer during Team Europe’s victory celebrations. The PGA has plans to host the PGA Championship at Bethpage Black in 2033 despite these occurrences.

‘I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf,’ McIlroy commented, stressing the need for the sport to uphold high standards.

Lynch also criticized certain spectators, referring to them as ‘privileged’ individuals buying tickets with ease. He proposed that golf should consider adopting the more stringent Augusta National Golf Club approach used at The Masters, where phones and second chances are not allowed.

The backdrop of Clark’s history, including his ban from Oakmont in 2025 for property damage, complicates the perception. Despite his past actions, Lynch believes that maintaining decorum at major championships is critical, which Long Island fans allegedly fail to achieve.