US Ryder Cup outfits spark online debate ahead of Bethpage Black matches

Team USA's Ryder Cup squad drew online criticism over its gala-dinner outfits before the 2025 matches, which begin at Bethpage Black on Long Island, New York. The United States and Europe gathered at Hempstead House in Sands Point for the Ryder Cup Teams Welcome Dinner on Sept. 23, a few days before the opening tee shots.

Photographs from the event showed American players arriving with their wives and girlfriends wearing suits without ties and sneakers, a stark departure from traditional formal wear commonly seen at such gatherings. The outfits quickly circulated on social media, drawing comments from fans and purists who favor a more classic look for the biennial competition.

As the Ryder Cup nears, fashion has joined a slate of storylines guiding fan expectations. Europe seeks to continue its dominance after a lopsided win in Rome in 2023, while the United States last claimed the Cup in 2021 at Whistling Straits and defeated Europe for the trophy in 2016 before that. The buildup includes star players from both sides shaping the tone for the weekend at Bethpage Black on Long Island.

On the U.S. side, Scottie Scheffler has led the year with a string of titles, including the Byron Nelson, Memorial, BMW Championship and the Procore Championship earlier this month. He also captured the PGA Championship and The Open Championship this season, cementing his standing as one of the tour’s most productive players heading into the matches. His leadership, both on and off the course, has been a focal point for Team USA as they prepare to face Europe.

For Europe, Rory McIlroy heads into the matches after completing the career Grand Slam with a Masters victory this year. He has also added notable wins at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Players Championship, underscoring the continent’s continued depth and experience as it seeks to reclaim the Cup.

Scottie Scheffler has also addressed the broader ecosystem surrounding the event, noting the Ryder Cup’s profile in a year of heightened political and social attention. In remarks surrounding the gala, he acknowledged that the presence of a high-profile figure associated with the event can have symbolic value for players dealing with a demanding schedule and intense scrutiny. The remarks reflect a broader narrative about the Ryder Cup as much more than a pure golf competition.

With the matches set to begin on Friday, teams will drive into the weekend with the hope of turning momentum in their favor across the foursomes, four-ball and singles sessions. The event on Long Island marks a new chapter for a competition that has long blended sport with national pride, fashion, and media attention.

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