Ryder Cup 2025: U.S. Team Ramps Up Psychological Warfare Against Europeans in Bethpage Black
U.S. Team Revving Up ‘Psychological War’ Ahead of Ryder Cup 2025
The atmosphere at Bethpage Black is electric as the United States team prepares to take on Europe in the 2025 Ryder Cup, scheduled from September 26 to 28. The home team is pulling out all the stops, starting with its mental game.
“The Europeans thought they were ready for the atmosphere, but they’ve never heard roars like this.”
— US Ryder Cup Team Member
Europeans Face Home Crowd’s Taunts on First Day of Practice
On Wednesday, September 24, the European team played a practice round at Bethpage Black, with Spanish golfer Jon Rahm experiencing the U.S. fans’ heat early. Approaching his first tee shot, Rahm was met with shout-outs about “Ozempic,” the weight loss medication, a clear jab at his physical appearance.
“‘Rahmbo,’ ¿dOvas es El Ozepic?,’ they shouted. It’s clear the U.S. fans are amping up the pressure,” said a European team insider.
Europeans Prepare for Hostile Environment with VR Training
Luke Donald, captain of the European team, has taken measures to ready his players for the U.S. crowd’s intensity. A special dinner three weeks ago equipped his players with virtual reality helmets and glasses, simulating hostile noise and insults.
“We needed to get accustomed to the environment we’ll live in,” Donald explained. “We have a very experienced team, but our obligation was to simulate the sensations they’d feel on the ‘tee’ of hole 1.”
Avoiding a Repeat of 2021’s Hostility
Two years ago, at the Whistling Straits course in Wisconsin, European golfer Shane Lowry reported his wife had suffered verbal abuse from local fans. Laura Davies, a past Ladies European Tour winner, expects a similar atmosphere this time around.
“I don’t expect the situation to change much,” said Davies. “In Whistling Straits, they definitely went overboard. I heard horrible things they shouted at the players. It could be just as bad or worse this time.”
Europe’s Previous Success on U.S. Soil
- European team’s last win in the U.S.: 2004, Oakland Hills
- Other European victories on U.S. soil: 1987, Muirfield Village; 1995, Oak Hill; 2012, Medinah Country Club
While the U.S. team is home, Europeans have a proven track record of success on American soil. They’ll aim to add 2025 to their list of wins away from home.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Ryder Cup
With the first day of practice behind them, the Ryder Cup teams are set to face off in a battle of skills, strategy, and mental fortitude. The U.S. team is employing psychological warfare early, setting the stage for an intense and exciting competition.
Q: What measures has the European team taken to prepare for the hostile U.S. crowd?
A: The European team used virtual reality helmets and glasses to simulate hostile noise and insults during a practice session led by captain Luke Donald.
**Did you know?** Bethpage Black has hosted two U.S. Opens and was ranked #1 in Golf Digest’s list of the “100 Greatest Golf Courses” in 2019.
**Pro Tip:** Keep an eye on Jon Rahm and Justin Thomas. Both players have been in form and should provide some fireworks this weekend.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis leading up to and during the 2025 Ryder Cup!
**Writer:** James M. (Sports Journalist, 247sports.news)