Bethpage Black: A Golfing Challenge Ahead of the Ryder Cup

Bethpage, NY – Recent data from Shot Scope indicates that Bethpage Black, which will host the 2025 Ryder Cup, presents substantial challenges for average golfers. The course is rated as extremely difficult, making it advisable only for highly skilled players. With the upcoming Ryder Cup from September 23 to 28, 2025, the course’s challenging layout will be on full display for elite competitors.

Analysis reveals that average golfers face significant obstacles when attempting to play from professional tees. Specifically, they struggle to hit more than half of Bethpage Black’s fairways, and seven out of the 14 driving holes are effectively unreachable for most players. For those with an average driving distance of around 204 yards, several par-4 holes transform into virtual par-5s, necessitating that players hit a driver followed by an additional shot to reach the fairway.

The fifth hole ranks as the hardest for golfers using Shot Scope data, with a mere 7 out of 100 players successfully hitting the green in regulation. The seventh hole is noted for its punishing nature, where missing the fairway can lead to severe penalties on scores. Furthermore, the 11th hole presents considerable difficulty, particularly for amateur golfers, due to its challenging false fronts, steep bunkers, and a sloping green that complicates up-and-down attempts.

Data supporting Bethpage Black’s considerable difficulty aligns with the previously posted warning signs at the course. Designed as a par-70, it rewards both precision and power from professional players who can navigate its obstacles effectively.

The 2025 Ryder Cup will see U.S. captain Keegan Bradley implementing a format of foursomes, or alternate shots, for the morning sessions during the first two days. This will be followed by singles matches on the final day. This approach marks the third consecutive Ryder Cup utilizing the foursome format in the morning sessions. Historically, the U.S. team has enjoyed a strong track record in events that begin with foursomes, holding a 12-4 record in such competitions.

As anticipation builds for the Ryder Cup, captains’ picks for the U.S. team are expected to be announced later this week. Despite playing on home turf, the U.S. team holds a slight betting edge at -130 to the European team’s +145, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

In a notable development, President Donald Trump has expressed plans to attend the Ryder Cup on September 26, offering his support for Captain Bradley. Individual tickets for the event are reported to have been sold starting at prices of $750, further highlighting the prestigious nature of the competition.

As the 2025 Ryder Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Bethpage Black, with its challenging design and demanding layout presenting a true test for the world’s best golfers.