A rivalry steeped in history

The Ryder Cup was first played in 1927, originally a contest between the United States and Great Britain. In 1979 the competition expanded to include players from across Europe, and it transformed into the sporting spectacle we know today.

Since then the rivalry has been fierce, with momentum swinging back and forth. Europe have lifted the trophy 12 times in the last 19 matches, while the United States remain dominant on home soil. Unforgettable moments such as Seve Ballesteros inspiring Europe in the 1980s, the Miracle at Medinah in 2012, and Brookline in 1999 have defined the contest as much as the scoreboards.

The Ryder Cup is different from any other golf event. It is about national pride, unity, and the rawest of emotions.

The venue – Bethpage Black

Bethpage Black is one of the most demanding courses in the world. Its fairways are narrow, the rough is unforgiving, and the bunkers are brutal. The iconic warning sign at the first tee, which advises that the Black Course is “extremely difficult”, usually greets players and visitors, although it has been moved this week due to the grandstands towering over the opening hole.

With New York fans providing a famously intense atmosphere, the first tee will be one of the loudest in Ryder Cup history.

Captains

Luke Donald (Europe) – Retained as captain after leading Europe to victory in Rome in 2023. Calm, analytical, and admired by his players, Donald will again focus on unity and preparation.
Keegan Bradley (United States) – A passionate competitor as a player, now leading the Americans for the first time. Expect energy, emotion, and a desire to use home advantage to maximum effect.
 
Format

Across three days, 28 points are available:

Foursomes and fourballs across the first two days
Singles matches on the final day
The first team to reach 14½ points will win the Ryder Cup. In the event of a 14–14 tie, Europe retain the trophy.

 
Players to watch

Rory McIlroy (Europe) – The heartbeat of Team Europe, his leadership and passion inspire those around him.
Jon Rahm (Europe) – A major champion and fierce competitor, capable of turning matches with brilliance.
Ludvig Åberg (Europe) – One of the brightest young talents in golf, making his mark on the biggest stage.
Scottie Scheffler (USA) – World number one with a point to prove after the disappointment of 2023.
Justin Thomas (USA) – A fiery competitor whose match play record makes him a key figure.
Bryson DeChambeau (USA) – Brings power and personality, perfectly suited for the intensity of Bethpage.
 
Course notes

Bethpage Black will not allow mistakes to go unpunished. Accuracy from the tee will be critical, while approach play must be sharp to find small and well protected greens. Holes such as the 15th and 17th could prove decisive late in matches.

Storylines

Can Scottie Scheffler and the United States regain the trophy in front of their own supporters
Will Europe’s mix of experienced leaders and rising stars be enough to overcome the intensity of Bethpage Black
How will captains Donald and Bradley handle the pressure of pairings, momentum swings, and crowd influence
 
Final word

The Ryder Cup is never just about golf. It is about passion, belief and national pride. For three days the world will watch every putt and every shot. The Americans want redemption, Europe want to prove their togetherness can conquer even the most intimidating atmosphere.

At Bethpage Black, legends will be made.

 
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