Specific details regarding Donald Trump’s Ryder Cup appearance remain unconfirmed as the PGA of America works frantically to manage the president’s visit.
Trump announced at the end of last month that he would attend the latest edition of the biennial men’s golf tournament at Bethpage Black in New York, scheduled for Sept. 26-28 as Keegan Bradley’s Team USA seeks to reclaim the trophy after their 2023 defeat.
Nevertheless, the disruptions caused by Trump’s presence at Sunday’s U.S. Open men’s final have left organizers uncertain. Additional security protocols implemented for Carlos Alcaraz’s ultimate triumph over Jannik Sinner resulted in the match being delayed for over 45 minutes.
The PGA of America, which oversees the Ryder Cup when held on American territory, was already anticipating unprecedented attendance of up to 60,000 spectators daily. Accommodating the president could create a logistical catastrophe.
Any additional security protocols required for Trump’s opening day appearance will likely further complicate crowd management, and considering the mayhem his arrival generated in the 23,771-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium, there’s substantial reason for alarm.
According to the PGA of America, “specific details” regarding Trump’s participation have yet to be finalized, which may not be shocking given the disaster that unfolded at Sunday’s U.S. Open. “While President Trump has indicated his interest in attending the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, specific details have not been confirmed,” the PGA of America said in a statement to Front Office Sports.
“As we get closer to Ryder Cup week, we will communicate any relevant updates that may impact the Ryder Cup experience. Our priority remains delivering a seamless, secure, and first-class environment for all our guests.”
European Ryder Cup team captain Luke Donald recently revealed his perspective on how Trump’s presence might influence the tournament, having already witnessed the choice to compete at Bethpage Black create tension within his squad.
“That the President of the United States would want to come and grace us with his presence just shows how big the Ryder Cup has become,” Donald told the Telegraph.
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“We’re expecting the crowds to be very loud and very spirited. And you know, I think he’ll add to that. But again, there’s something that we’ve been expecting…. We’ll be ready for it.”
Trump’s attendance will also intensify the pressure on Team USA captain Keegan Bradley, having endorsed him to “definitely” secure a spot on the Ryder Cup team before announcing his selection.
“Keegan Bradley should DEFINITELY be on the American Ryder Cup Team – As Captain!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform last month. “He is an AMAZING guy. It will be a great Ryder Cup. At the invite of the PGA Tour, I will be there on Tournament Friday! President DJT.”
Bradley, of course, did not heed Trump’s advice and chose to focus solely on his captain’s responsibilities. Derek Sprague, the CEO of PGA of America, later confirmed to The Athletic that his organization had invited Trump, with the president repeating a common misconception that the PGA Tour and PGA of America are the same organization.
