Viktor Hovland admits what he thinks could shock him and other European players at the 2025 Ryder Cup

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If Europe seal back-to-back Ryder Cup victories in September, Luke Donald’s 12-man team will have to deal with the fierce partisan New York crowds.

Patrick Cantlay’s ridicule in Rome in 2023 promises to add fuel to the fire, and USA captain Keegan Bradley anticipates a “crazy” atmosphere at Bethpage.

However, there is concern that unsavoury scenes could emerge. At the 1999 Ryder Cup, USA fans abused Colin Montgomerie, leading to Tiger Woods hitting out at the Brookline support. As a result, Bradley has sent a warning to those in attendance at the famous Long Island venue: fans who overstep the mark will be removed.

For Europe, playing on US shores has always been challenging, and dealing with the crowd has proven difficult. Donald tried to prepare his Ryder Cup hopefuls at the Team Cup, but recreating what will greet them at Bethpage is impossible.

Viktor Hovland will likely make Donald’s team and compete in his first away Ryder Cup. The Norwegian has admitted that several rookies may be taken by surprise once they take the course at Bethpage.

Viktor Hovland shares view on Ryder Cup crowds

Speaking ahead of this week’s Dubai Desert Classic, Hovland admitted the New York crowds could surprise several European players. “I think we’ve got the talent. Obviously, the last Ryder Cup was huge for us. I think we get a lot of confidence from that,” Hovland said.

“I don’t know how they are going to set Bethpage up, and I don’t know how many of the guys are going to be on that team have been there and seen it. I think the biggest thing that will, at least, probably take me by surprise and a lot of other guys, as well, is the crowd, the home crowd.

“Obviously, the New Yorkers are going to be loud, and they are not going to be holding back. I think our resilience and just toughness and embracing the challenge, I think that’s going to be the most important thing for Team Europe.”

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Viktor Hovland must be part of Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup team

Despite enduring an indifferent 2024 that included swing changes, multiple coaches and injury setbacks, Hovland must be part of Donald’s team.

Hovland’s partnership with Ludvig Aberg in Rome saw history made during the Saturday foursomes. The European pair beat USA heavyweights Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka 9&7 in what was the most significant winning victory in the tournament’s history.

Regardless of Hovland’s form heading into the September event, the 27-year-old clearly understands what’s required to succeed in a high-pressure match-play scenario.

Hovland ended the 2023 Ryder Cup with a 3-0-1 record, having lost just one four-ball match.