Team Europe Gathers Momentum Ahead of Bethpage Black

Team Europe head to New York this week for a much-anticipated “scouting mission” at Bethpage Black, with spirits high after a strong showing at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.

Luke Donald’s 12-man squad will all take part in the practice trip, with eleven of them sharpening their games at Wentworth last week. Vice-captain Alex Noren stole the headlines by clinching victory, while Viktor Hovland, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Tyrrell Hatton all finished tied-fifth. Rory McIlroy capped off his preparation with a stunning final-round 65, including two eagles and five birdies, to surge into the top 20.

Other team members also put in solid displays: Ludvig Åberg tied-20th, Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry both finished eight under, while Justin Rose impressed early on. Only Robert MacIntyre and Rasmus Højgaard failed to make all four rounds, while Sepp Straka – the sole absentee at Wentworth – will link up with the team in New York.

The groupings at Wentworth may have given subtle clues about potential Ryder Cup partnerships. Fleetwood played alongside Rose, Fitzpatrick with Åberg, and Hovland with Højgaard. Hatton joined MacIntyre, while McIlroy, Lowry, and Jon Rahm formed a marquee threeball.

While Donald insists nothing is set in stone, the opportunity to test partnerships both in competition and during practice rounds at Bethpage is invaluable.

With Bethpage Black renowned for its passionate and partisan crowds, Team Europe have gone to new lengths in preparation. Players trialled VR headsets during a team gathering at Wentworth, simulating the noise and heckling they can expect on the first tee.

McIlroy embraced the challenge, requesting the maximum level of “heckling” in his headset. “You can wear all the VR headsets you want, but nothing can truly prepare you until it’s real,” he said. Jon Rahm agreed, calling it a fun but useful exercise.

Building Bonds and Strategies

Europe has struggled in recent away matches, losing three of the last four Ryder Cups on American soil. Determined to turn the tide, Donald and his team are using the New York trip to bond, play the course, and handle the behind-the-scenes essentials usually crammed into Ryder Cup week.

Former captain and advisor Paul McGinley described it as “a recce,” noting that all 12 players had committed to the trip months in advance. Alongside practice rounds, the week will include strategy sessions, guest speakers, and team activities – all designed to foster unity and focus.

After their reconnaissance at Bethpage, the players will split off – some staying in New York to practise, others working with coaches or taking time at home – before regrouping for the main event.

The Ryder Cup will take place from September 26–28, 2025, where Team Europe will attempt to reclaim the trophy on American soil. With strong performances, innovative preparation, and a united squad, Luke Donald’s men look ready for the challenge.