LaCava connects with McIlroy after Saturday’s contact

GUIDONIA MONTICILIO, Italy — American caddy Joe LaCava reached out to Rory McIlroy late Saturday, according to NBC Sports correspondent Steve Sands, after one of the most controversial days in recent Ryder Cup history.

“Love you guys, I have nothing but respect,” Lacava texted McIlroy’s camp.

It was also reported that the two met on Sunday morning, but McIlroy was emphatic after his 3-1 singles win over Sam Burns: “I haven’t met Joe.” (A statement he repeated when asked about it again.)

The friction began on the 18th^y Green during Saturday’s final four-ball match when Patrick Cantlay converted a crucial birdie putt, sending the American team into a mocking hat-waving celebration. LaCava, who was holding the caddy for Cantlay, continued to celebrate in McIlroy’s line of sight as McIlroy tried to set up his own birdie attempt. This led to an angry reaction from Harry Diamond, the Northern Irishman, and some of his European colleagues.

the problem It extended to the front of the club When Jim “Bones” McKay, who was carrying caddy for American Justin Thomas, a friend of LaCava’s, tried to talk to McIlroy while he was waiting for his car. Everything McKay said prompted McIlroy to react angrily.

“This can’t be happening. This can’t be happening,” McIlroy shouted in McKay’s direction. “Shame on the king.”

McIlroy and McKay had to be separated by Shane Lowry and McIlroy’s manager confirmed that the exchange in the parking area was prompted by what happened on the 18th.^y green.

McIlroy met McKay as he prepared for his singles match on Sunday but they did not speak.