Ryder Cup Heads too Bethpage Black: Expect Passion, Pressure, and a Home-Field Advantage
FARMINGDALE, NY – The 2025 Ryder Cup is set to ignite at Bethpage Black, promising a uniquely charged atmosphere fueled by passionate New York fans and a course steeped in championship history. Players are bracing for an intense environment, with Justin Thomas already hailing the event as “the biggest golf event ever.” The declaration confirms weeks of speculation and sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown between Team USA and Team Europe.
The selection of Bethpage Black marks a return to American soil following the 2023 competition in Rome, where Europe secured a decisive victory. This year’s event carries added weight as the U.S. team seeks redemption on a course renowned for its difficulty and its fiercely loyal, vocal fanbase. The Ryder Cup differs from major championships, focusing on team competition rather than individual scoring, amplifying the pressure and emotional stakes.
Scottie Scheffler, fresh off his sixth PGA Tour title of the year, anticipates a “good battle” with Europe, acknowledging the emotional intensity inherent in the Ryder Cup. He recalls the sting of defeat two years prior, when he and Brooks Koepka suffered a swift 9 and 7 loss to Viktor hovland and Ludvig Åberg in foursomes. Past Ryder Cups haven’t been without controversy; the 2023 event saw patrick Cantlay respond to boisterous Italian fans with a clutch performance,while an incident involving Rory McIlroy and caddie Joe lacava highlighted the rising tensions.
Bethpage Black, the first publicly owned course to host a U.S. Open in 2002, is known for its challenging layout and dedicated following. New York residents can play the course for $70, while others pay $140 – a bargain considering its prestigious history, having hosted two U.S. Opens and a PGA Championship. The course’s unique connection to the community, described by Justin Leonard as having “50,000 owners out there,” is expected to translate into a boisterous, and potentially intimidating, atmosphere for the European team. Unlike the 2023 event, where COVID-19 travel restrictions limited European fan presence, a more balanced gallery is anticipated at Bethpage.
Team USA will be relying on that home-field advantage,hoping to harness the energy of Long Island fans,who Thomas describes as “so passionate” and demanding of excellence. The Americans are prepared to deliver, understanding the expectations that come with playing on a course that feels deeply personal to its local supporters.
