There is less than a year until the 2025 Ryder Cup, which will be held at Bethpage Black in the United States. captain Keegan Bradley issued a strong reminder that security will be tightened to manage the notoriously passionate New York crowds. Bradley emphasized that while the fans are expected to cheer loudly for their team, maintaining a fair and respectful atmosphere for both sides is essential.
Captains Address Concerns at Manhattan Conference
Bradley, alongside European captain Luke Donald, held a press conference in Manhattan on Tuesday, ahead of the much-anticipated event, scheduled for September 26-28. Bethpage Black, a renowned public course on Long Island, has a reputation for hosting some of the most raucous crowds in golf.
Bradley expressed his optimism that the New York fans will be enthusiastic and boisterous, but he issued a warning: "I do not want them to cross the line or do anything that would impair the game's progress." Bradley said that both sides would face challenges, but added that security would be in place to make sure the competition is kept fair.
Preparing for a Hostile Environment
Bethpage Black has long been known for its difficulty, with a prominent sign at the first tee advising that the course is only recommended for highly skilled golfers. The challenge for players, however, will extend beyond the course's physical demands. Bradley likened the intensity of Bethpage crowds to iconic New York sports venues like Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden.
Bradley stated, "The PGA of America will do an excellent job of ensuring that everything goes as planned.
The Unique Challenge of Bethpage Black
This will not be the first time Bethpage Black has hosted a major golfing event. The course previously staged the U.S. 2002 and 2009 broadens and the 2019 Golf Tournament.. Its crowds, however, have proven as challenging as its layout. Brooks Koepka was heckled as he nearly let a significant lead slip away in 2019, and Sergio Garcia faced relentless taunting at the 2002 U.S. Open, which led to an infamous gesture from the Spanish golfer.
The Ryder Cup, with its deeply patriotic tone, only heightens the intensity of the atmosphere. Although Europe will have its share of supporters, they are expected to be heavily outnumbered, as was the case at Whistling Straits during the pandemic.
Ryder Cup Spirit: High Energy, High Passion
Luke Donald talked about how the Ryder Cup is special because of its intense passion and enthusiasm.ThePassions are high. Energy is high,” he said. However, Donald was quick to add that while players feed off this energy, it is crucial that the spirit of the competition remains intact. The PGA of America, he noted, has measures in place to handle inappropriate behavior.
Bradley’s Role as U.S. Captain
Keegan Bradley, who delivered the winning point for the Americans in the Presidents Cup last month, reiterated his commitment to the U.S. team. Bradley has made it clear he would only relinquish his captaincy if he earns a spot on the team through the points system. For now, this possibility is not his focus, but he has contingency plans in place should he qualify as a player.
LIV Golfers and Ryder Cup Eligibility
The eligibility of LIV Golf players continues to be a topic of conversation. Bradley and Donald both confirmed that players from the Saudi-backed league could still be considered for the Ryder Cup teams, provided they meet the necessary qualifications. Brooks Koepka was the only LIV player to compete for the U.S. in the previous Ryder Cup, but others, like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, have since joined LIV.
U.S. Points System for Ryder Cup Selection
Under the US point system for World Cup selection, one point will be given for each dollar earned at the majors and the Golf Players Championship in 2024.. In 2025, one point will be awarded for every dollar won in all tournaments except competitive events, with 1.5 points awarded in major events this year. Currently, Xander Schauffele sits just above Scottie Schauffele in the rankings, having won two major championships this year. Schauffler remains a close second, having won both the Masters and Players Championships.
Europe’s Battle on U.S. Soil
Although Europe has claimed victory in 10 of the last 14 Ryder Cups dating back to 1995, winning on U.S. soil has become increasingly challenging. The last time a European team won away from home was in 2012, with a stunning comeback win at Medina. Donald acknowledged that playing in the US was a big challenge. "The results have been skewed in America's favor in the last few away games," he said. Nevertheless, he was confident his team could rise to the challenge, even as underdogs.
As the Ryder Cup approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a fiercely contested event at one of the most challenging venues in golf. The teams are set, the stage is nearly ready, and the fans are poised to make Bethpage Black an unforgettable chapter in Ryder Cup history.
Comments