By Brian R. Mahoney, Executive Director/CEO
Few sporting events stir the soul like the Ryder Cup, and in just a week, Bethpage Black will take its turn on golf’s biggest stage. Millions will watch. The world’s best will battle. And Long Island will bring its own unmistakable flavor.
I’ve been lucky enough to witness the Ryder Cup both here and abroad. Rory McIlroy’s tearful words after Europe’s 2021 defeat – calling it “the best event in golf” – still ring in my ears. When a player of his stature says that you know this isn’t just another tournament.
Bethpage is no stranger to pressure. It’s hosted U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, Met Opens (!), and seen some of the fiercest crowds in the game. This September, it will add a new chapter. Here are my four hot takes:
Bethpage’s rowdy reputation had some wondering if a New York public-course crowd might cross the line. My call? Passionate, loud, electric – but respectful. Think Super Bowl energy, minus the Monday morning regret.
Bethpage rewards power, and the Americans have it in spades. I’m thrilled that Cameron Young is on the team, and his prior success on the Black is a bonus. Add in flatter-than-usual greens, and this U.S. squad looks poised to snap Europe’s momentum in emphatic fashion.
Expect plenty of matches to reach 17 and 18 – prime real estate for corporate hospitality. The closing stretch plays right into American strengths, so the drama should peak exactly where the biggest crowds will be.
Keegan Bradley’s openness to feedback and his competitive fire make him an ideal team leader. In my view, those traits would have made him a great playing captain as well – though that decision was always a double-edged sword. With vice captains Gary Woodland, Jim Furyk, Brandt Snedeker, Kevin Kisner, and Webb Simpson – a balanced mix of brains, experience, and personality – this leadership team is built for success. That said, I expect Team USA to win big, and Keegan’s only regret may be not being “on” the team.
Bethpage will roar, Team USA will flex, and the Ryder Cup will once again prove why it’s the most compelling event in golf. This one will be remembered. The only question: how soon do we start counting down to the rematch?
Yours in golf,