Rahm heckled with 'where's the Ozempic?' as Europe head to Ryder Cup in New York

Jon Rahm, world No. 73, was greeted with cries of 'where's the Ozempic?' as he limbered up to take his first tee shot at Bethpage Black on Tuesday. The Spaniard is part of a Europe team that includes Rory McIlroy, Matt Fitzpatrick and captain Luke Donald, bidding to become only the fifth side in history to win the Ryder Cup on American soil this weekend.

As is customary in Ryder Cup weeks in the United States, European players frequently contend with hostile receptions from the crowd. Dame Laura Davies warned that the behavior seen at past matches could be repeated in New York, telling Metro that at Whistling Straits there was “a lot of abuse to some of the friends and family” of players. Rahm acknowledged the risk, saying he hoped the atmosphere wouldn’t cross a line but wouldn’t be surprised if it did: “I hope it doesn’t go over the top, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s that bad again, maybe even worse.” European stars, including Rahm, tried to put the distraction behind them as they prepared for competition and posed for team photos with their partners.

The European squad, led by Donald, will rely on a deep lineup as they chase a historic victory on American soil. Rahm was among those arriving with his wife, Kelley Rahm, who wore a bronze gown with crystal detailing as photographers captured the moment ahead of the Welcome Dinner. Fellow stars also arrived in formal attire, with Rory McIlroy in a classic black suit and his wife Erica Stoll in a sleek dress. The scene underscored the Ryder Cup’s blend of sport and pageantry, with players, caddies and partners gathering for a long-standing tradition that helps teams bond before Friday’s opening rounds.

The official Ryder Cup Welcome Dinner took place at Hempstead House in Sands Point, New York, giving both sides a chance to unwind and build camaraderie ahead of a demanding course test. The event highlighted the social aspect of the competition, as the European WAGs posed for a group selfie outside the mansion and shared light moments before the matches begin. The gathering is one of many pre-event rituals designed to bolster team unity for a weekend that features two days of four-ball and foursomes followed by 12 singles on Sunday.

Bethpage Black on Long Island is widely regarded as one of the PGA Tour’s toughest layouts, a factor that adds to the pressure on both teams as they prepare to tee off on Friday, September 26. Europe faces an uphill task against a U.S. roster that will be encouraged by a home crowd and a history of success in recent Ryder Cups held on American soil. Still, the European squad enters the week with depth and experience across its lineup, and the team’s leadership under Donald has emphasized calm, focus and resilience amidst the noise.

With the opening rounds imminent, players and fans alike will be watching how the atmosphere in New York develops over the next few days. Officials have urged civility, while players have acknowledged the potential for intense crowds. The 2025 Ryder Cup represents a rare chance for Europe to flip the script on American terrain and deliver a result that would reverberate through the sport’s landscape for years to come.