The Ryder Cup 2025 is upon us, and all eyes are on Bethpage Black in New York. Can Team Europe break the home-side dominance and secure a victory on American soil? The pressure is on, and the stakes are high. The US team, eager to reclaim the trophy after Europe's convincing win in Rome, are the slight favourites according to bookmakers, but Europe's historical away wins and strategic team selections suggest an intense competition.
Fast Starts and Historical Homage
Rory McIlroy has emphasised the difficulty of winning an away Ryder Cup, calling it one of golf's greatest challenges. He even suggested that this European team has the potential to be one of the greatest in history if they can pull off a victory at Bethpage. The opening session on Friday will be crucial. Historically, the team that dominates the Friday foursomes often goes on to win the entire event. Europe needs to reverse their previous away match trends where they've trailed significantly in foursomes.
Adding a unique layer to the competition, Team Europe, led by Captain Luke Donald, is drawing inspiration from past away victories. The team's practice round uniforms incorporate colours from their most recent triumphs on US soil: salmon (1987), navy blue (1995), yellow (2004), and magenta (2012). This visual tribute serves as a reminder of their capabilities and a source of unity. Justin Rose highlights the importance of harnessing those positive memories and celebrating the legends who came before them.
Key Pairings to Watch
Keegan Bradley has announced Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas as Team USA's opening pairing for the Friday foursomes. On the European side, Jon Rahm, paired with Tyrrell Hatton, will lead the charge. Rahm and Hatton formed an unbeaten partnership during Europe's 2023 victory, making them a formidable duo. Another key pairing for Europe is Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, who secured the winning point in Rome. They will face Collin Morikawa and Harris English.
- Team USA: Bryson DeChambeau & Justin Thomas
- Team Europe: Jon Rahm & Tyrrell Hatton
- Team Europe: Rory McIlroy & Tommy Fleetwood vs Collin Morikawa & Harris English
The 2025 Ryder Cup promises to be a thrilling contest filled with strategic pairings, historical nods, and intense competition. Will Europe's inspired team selection and homage to past victories give them the edge, or will Team USA defend their home turf and reclaim the trophy? Only time will tell.