Rory McIlroy has arrived at Bethpage Black, where The Masters champion is joined by his European Ryder Cup teammates.
McIlroy took on the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth last week as he stepped up his preparations for the Ryder Cup, which returns later this month.
That followed his success at the Irish Open, where the five-time major champion claimed his 20th win on the DP World Tour.
McIlroy conquered Kildare before finishing T20 at Wentworth, where the majority of his European Ryder Cup teammates were involved.
But it was one of Luke Donald’s vice captains who clinched the trophy, with Alex Noren securing his second win at the event.
Rory McIlroy causes shock after ‘insane’ footage emerges from Bethpage Black
The team have now arrived at Bethpage as they really ramp up their Ryder Cup preparations, and McIlroy has already caused shock after footage of his first tee shot.
Reacting to the opening practice shot from the Northern Irishman, one fan wrote on X in disbelief: “What’s this line?!”
A second commented: “This is insanely humbling,” with a third writing: “His line is a shank for the average Bethpage tee ball.”
Other shocked fans said: “Wait that’s not the line, I’ve played there?” and “Ahh… just like the architect intended… over the trees onto the green!”
And further shock arrived from another, who noted: “These guys are going to be chipping into the first green with how far up the tee will be next week.”
There is also plenty of excitement from others, who said: “If the first tee shot is that line, we’ve got a cracker on our hands,” and “Can’t wait to see Rory vs Bryson [DeChambeau] on hole 1.”
Rory McIlroy’s Ryder Cup record ahead of eighth appearance at Bethpage Black
McIlroy boasts a fantastic Ryder Cup record, having represented Europe at the event on seven occasions.
He’s lifted the trophy five times from those seven appearances, from which he has 16 wins, 13 losses and four ties.
His 18 points meanwhile place him at number eight in the all-time European Ryder Cup list, with that tally certain to be extended at Bethpage Black.
But he is well aware of the task at hand, with McIlroy having constantly alluded to just how difficult winning an away Ryder Cup is in the build-up to this year’s event.
Various factors will play a part in such difficulty for the visitors, including the fans and the talented United States team.
But the course itself could prove hugely difficult for many experienced players, although big hitters such as McIlroy may just be able to thrive given the length of Bethpage Black.
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