The countdown for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black is well and truly on as anticipation builds for what’s expected to be a fiercely competitive event.
Last week, the Ryder Cup discourse was further complicated by the news that American players would be paid for the first time in the competition’s 97-year history.
European players have since reacted, with many suggesting they’re happy to play the Ryder Cup for passion over money. Furthermore, after Patrick Cantlay was ridiculed in Rome, the US fans at Bethpage will no doubt make life difficult for Luke Donald’s team.
Keegan Bradley anticipates an electric atmosphere at Bethpage, with the New York crowds known for their boisterous support. Another factor that appears to be overlooked is just how difficult the course will be.
Grant Horvat and Bryan Bros take on Bethpage Black
Bethpage Black is widely regarded as one of the most demanding courses on the planet. However, that didn’t stop YouTube trio Grant Horvat, Wesley Bryan and George Bryan IV from playing two rounds at the iconic Long Island venue.
The trio were attempting to make the cut at the 2019 PGA Championship, which Brooks Koepka won. The cut line was +4.
Horvat struggled during the first round, carding a six-over 76. Wesley, who is fighting for his PGA Tour card, shot a seven-over 77, and George carded a 72 in the windy conditions.
The dynamic, however, changed during the second round. In much kinder conditions, Horvat shot 74 and ended the 36 holes 11-over-par.
George carded a two-under 68 to end the day two rounds level par. Wesley, however, produced a remarkable turnaround—the 34-year-old shot a five-under 65 to make the cut with relative ease.
Why Bethpage Black is so difficult
Like most of the world’s elite courses, Bethpage is extremely long and will undoubtedly be lengthened for the Ryder Cup. There’s just one par-three under 200 yards, and its two par-fives measure over 600 yards.
The par 70 also makes Bethpage extremely testing, with only two par-fives on the course for professionals. Number seven, typically a par-five, is made a par-four for the biggest events.
As documented in the first round on Horvat’s channel, the unpredictable Long Island conditions also make the course challenging. Swirling winds make it hard to land precise iron shots onto the quick greens.
Another issue that Ryder Cup stars will have to contend with is the rough. During the Bryan Bros and Horvat’s rounds, the rough appeared to be cut down, which won’t be the case when Europe and America face off next September.
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