Lee Greenwood’s anthem “God Bless the U.S.A.” and its refrain, “I’m proud to be an American” has long been a staple at sporting events. I’ve teared up many times when I’ve heard him sing the song that celebrates love of country, gratitude for freedom and pride in the values that bind us together. It is, at its core, a ballad of unity.

And yet, at the just-completed Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, the behavior of some American fans was the very antithesis of Greenwood’s lyrics. Instead of embodying pride and respect, the galleries descended into vulgarity and hostility. Instead of showing the world the best of America, they displayed our worst.

European golfers were mocked mid-swing. Rory McIlroy, who is arguably the most popular golfer on the PGA Tour and its greatest active

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