Hochul booed at Ryder Cup opening ceremonies at Bethpage Black

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul was booed during the Ryder Cup opening ceremonies at Bethpage Black on Long Island on Wednesday, as NBC broadcaster Carson Daly announced attendees for the ceremony. The telecast captured loud chants and jeers from parts of the crowd, signaling a divide among fans at the event that brings together U.S. and European players.

Some spectators clapped as Hochul waved an American flag, while others directed their displeasure toward her. At one point, a voice shouted, “Get outta here Kathy!” Hochul appeared to smile and continued to participate in the ceremony.

The moment underscored the political undertones surrounding the event, which is being hosted at Bethpage Black as President Donald Trump is slated to attend the start of the Ryder Cup in the days ahead. Trump has golfed with players on both sides in recent years as he has sought to influence the relationship between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

U.S. captain Keegan Bradley said Trump would be at the first tee before play begins, a detail that drew attention amid broader debate about the former president’s involvement in golf’s political dynamics. Fox News’ Ryan Morik contributed to this report.

Scottie Scheffler, one of the U.S. players, said Trump’s presence is “important” for the event and the country, noting that having the president at a home event on U.S. soil carries symbolic weight. He added that Trump, whom Scheffler described as someone who loves the game of golf and treats people with respect, has occasionally reached out after victories.

The ceremony at Bethpage Black, a course on Long Island known for its challenging layout, marked the opening of a Ryder Cup that pits Team United States against Team Europe. Officials and players stressed the event’s focus on competition, while the crowd’s reactions highlighted how politics can intersect with major sporting events.

NBC’s coverage featured Daly interviewing Hochul during the opening moments, with other guests shown in attendance as the ceremony proceeded. The dynamic at Bethpage Black reflects a broader pattern in which sports events become stages for political expressions, even as athletes and organizers emphasize the event’s competitive significance and pageantry.