Farmingdale, New York – September 24, 2025 – The 45th Ryder Cup is days away, set for September 26–28 at Bethpage Black. While Team USA (captain Keegan Bradley) and Team Europe (captain Luke Donald) fight for the trophy, off-course factors may shape the week.
Weather & Health
Opening day (Sept. 26) brings an 80% chance of thunderstorms and gusts up to 45 km/h, moving the opening ceremony to Wednesday. Weekend conditions mix sun, clouds, and showers, with cool nights keeping greens firm. Health also matters: USA’s Xander Schauffele manages a rib issue, Tiger Woods is out after Achilles surgery but may advise, and Europe’s Matt Fitzpatrick is fit again. The “Envelope Rule” ensures fairness if injuries arise.
Atmosphere & Celebrities
Bethpage crowds are famously rowdy. Europe prepped with VR headsets simulating New York heckling, led by Rory McIlroy. Adding to the spectacle: former President Donald Trump, plus Colin Jost, John McEnroe, and Catherine Zeta-Jones in a Celebrity All-Star Match. Fans sport “Make Golf Great Again” caps to set the mood.
Logistics & Security
For 50,000 daily spectators, access will be challenging. No on-site parking; all must use LIRR shuttles or rideshare lots. Private parking reaches $100 per day, and walk-ins are banned. Security is heightened after recent violence: hundreds of state police and drones will oversee crowd behavior and closures.
Sponsors & Costs
Global partners Aon, BMW, Capgemini, Citi, DP World, and Rolex fuel the multimillion-dollar show, joined by Mastercard, CDW, and T-Mobile, which funds bars and free concessions. Branding dominates the grounds and broadcasts. Fans face steep costs: beer at $15 sparks complaints, though Ryder Cup+ tickets include free food and soft drinks.
The Stage Is Set
With weather drama, packed crowds, VIP appearances, and massive commercial backing, the Ryder Cup will be as much spectacle as sport. But at its core, it remains Bradley’s USA against Donald’s Europe, chasing golf’s most coveted team prize.
