Farmingdale, NY, October 19, 2025
At the Ryder Cup opening ceremony in Farmingdale, Governor Kathy Hochul was met with loud boos from the crowd. The incident highlighted political tensions as the high-stakes golf event commenced at Bethpage Black Golf Course. Despite the crowd’s reaction, the ceremony proceeded smoothly, showcasing top golfers from the U.S. and Europe. The Ryder Cup, a major biennial competition, returns to New York, intensifying local tourism and emotions surrounding the event.
Farmingdale, NY – Boos Greet Governor Hochul at Ryder Cup Opening Ceremony
New York Governor Kathy Hochul faced a wave of loud boos from the crowd during her appearance at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony on Saturday at Bethpage Black Golf Course in Farmingdale, Long Island. The hostile reaction occurred amid ongoing political tensions, setting a charged tone for the start of the high-stakes golf competition between Team USA and Team Europe.
Event Details and Crowd Response
The ceremony kicked off the 2025 Ryder Cup, a biennial team event where 12 American players compete against 12 from Europe over three days. Held on home soil at the renowned public course, the event drew thousands of spectators eager to support the U.S. team. As Governor Hochul took the stage to deliver welcoming remarks, the audience responded with widespread jeering and disapproval, highlighting divisions often seen at public events involving elected officials.
Security and event staff managed the situation without disruption to the schedule, allowing the ceremony to proceed. Players from both teams, including American stars like Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, were introduced to cheers, shifting focus back to the competition.
Background on the Ryder Cup and Venue
The Ryder Cup, first played in 1927, alternates between U.S. and European venues. This year’s event at Bethpage Black marks a return to New York, where the course previously hosted the 2002 and 2019 U.S. Opens. Known for its challenging layout and passionate crowds, the venue adds intensity to the matches, with the U.S. aiming to reclaim the cup after Europe’s win in 2023.
Competition begins Sunday morning with foursomes and four-ball formats, followed by singles matches on Monday. The event not only showcases top golf talent but also boosts local tourism and economy on Long Island.
Political Context
Governor Hochul’s appearance aligns with her role in promoting major state events, but the boos reflect broader public sentiments in a politically divided climate. New York has seen similar reactions at sports venues, where crowds express views on state policies and leadership. Organizers emphasized the focus remains on the athletic competition, not politics.
FAQ
What happened to Kathy Hochul at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony?
New York Governor Kathy Hochul faced a wave of loud boos from the crowd during her appearance at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony on Saturday at Bethpage Black Golf Course in Farmingdale, Long Island.
Where and when did the incident occur?
The hostile reaction occurred amid ongoing political tensions at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony held on Saturday at Bethpage Black Golf Course in Farmingdale, Long Island.
What is the Ryder Cup?
The Ryder Cup is a high-stakes golf competition between Team USA and Team Europe, starting with the opening ceremony and featuring matches over three days.
Why was Governor Hochul at the event?
Governor Hochul took the stage to deliver welcoming remarks as part of her role in promoting major state events.
How did the event proceed after the boos?
Security and event staff managed the situation without disruption to the schedule, allowing the ceremony to proceed with player introductions.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Venue | Bethpage Black Golf Course, Farmingdale, Long Island |
| Event Dates | October 18-20, 2025 (Ceremony on October 18) |
| Teams | 12 players from Team USA vs. 12 from Team Europe |
| Format | Foursomes, four-ball, and singles matches over three days |
| Significance | Biennial competition; U.S. seeks to reclaim the cup on home soil |
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