Ryder Cup 2025 Preview

The 2025 Ryder Cup is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle—here’s your comprehensive preview of what to expect.

Venue & Course

  • Where & When: The 45th Ryder Cup takes place September 26–28, 2025, at the Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York. Wikipedia
  • About the Course: Designed by A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1936, Bethpage Black is a public course known for its punishing layout—deep bunkers, thick rough, massive undulating greens, and a warning sign at the first tee advising that it’s for “highly skilled golfers” only. Ryder Cup
  • This will be the first Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black—though the venue has hosted major events like the U.S. Open (2002, 2009) and the 2019 PGA Championship. It becomes only the second course in New York to host the Cup after Oak Hill (1995). Ryder Cup

Format & Schedule

  • Match Schedule:
    • Friday & Saturday: Morning foursomes (alternate-shot) and afternoon four-ball (better-ball) matches. Ryder Cup
    • Sunday: 12 singles matches to decide the Cup. Ryder Cup
  • Total Matches: 28 matches over the three days. A team needs 14½ points to win, while a 14–14 tie would allow the defending champions to retain the Cup. Ryder Cup

Teams & Captains

  • Europe:
    • Captain: Luke Donald, returning for his second Ryder Cup as captain—the first repeat captain for Europe since 1995. Ryder Cup
    • First Qualifier: Rory McIlroy locked in Europe’s first qualifying spot earlier this year, asserting his continuing form and commitment. Reuters
  • USA:
    • Captain: Keegan Bradley, confirmed as captain for 2025, aiming to lead the U.S. back to victory on home soil. At 39, he will be the U.S.’s youngest non-playing Ryder Cup captain since Arnold Palmer. Ryder Cup
    • Notable Selection: Connecticut-native Cameron Young earned one of the captain’s picks—making his Ryder Cup debut, and significantly, a story due to his local connection (grew up near Bethpage). New York Post

Key Storylines & Drama

  • Bethpage Black’s Reputation: It’s being called one of the toughest courses in the U.S., known to create high drama on every hole. The venue’s history and rough reputation add to the stakes. Golf365
  • Hatton’s Wild Celebration: Tyrrell Hatton’s qualification was marred by a raucous celebratory night involving excessive drinking. He later recounted waking up “covered in his own vomit” but left a cheeky note and tip for hotel staff. Reuters
  • McIlroy’s Form & Leadership: Rory McIlroy, Europe’s anchor, is entering as a dominant force this season. His form and experience may prove pivotal in matches against a raucous American crowd. Reuters The Sun
  • USA Team Pressure: With home advantage comes expectation. Scottie Scheffler, among others, carries the burden of helping the U.S. reclaim the Cup after Europe’s 2023 win. San Francisco Chronicle

Final Thoughts

The Ryder Cup 2025 at Bethpage Black promises drama, intensity, and historic moments. A rugged, high-stakes venue. Two captains with contrasting leadership styles and pressures. Rising stars and storylines galore—local pro Cameron Young, McIlroy’s winning form, Hatton’s unforgettable night.

All eyes will be on September 26–28. Will Team USA retake the Cup with the roar of a home crowd, or will Europe, under Luke Donald’s guidance, defend with poise on hostile turf?