Massive Crowd Gathers at Bethpage Black for Ryder Cup Opening

Golf fans flocked to Bethpage Black as early as 4 a.m. on Friday morning to witness the start of a highly anticipated Ryder Cup, with heightened security measures due to the expected arrival of President Donald Trump.

As gates opened at 5 a.m. EST—well before the first four-ball matches scheduled for shortly after 7 a.m.—fans rushed to secure prime spots in the grandstand, which was already near full capacity more than two hours prior to play. Supporters sprinted through security checks to get the best seats, with thorough screenings in place amid a large turnout.

This Ryder Cup has been closely watched, especially with Team Europe’s Rory McIlroy, aiming to become only the fifth team to win the trophy on American soil. Trump’s expected arrival around noon has added an extra layer of security, including bans on items typically permitted at golf events, such as range finders, portable chargers, and large umbrellas. These restrictions follow recent security concerns, including an incident involving a man with a range finder shortly before Trump was shot at in Pennsylvania last year.

In the early hours, supporters expressed their enthusiasm vocally, with some European players, including McIlroy and Jon Rahm, receiving jeers and hostile chants from the crowd. Rahm was greeted with a taunt about his weight management choice, exemplifying the spirited—and often aggressive—spectator environment typical of American events.

Meanwhile, some players, like Bryson DeChambeau—who has publicly supported Trump—hope his presence will motivate Team USA. DeChambeau expressed confidence that Trump’s attendance would energize the team and create an electric atmosphere.

Fans raced to Bethpage Black in the early morning hours before play began.

By two hours before play, the grandstand was already packed.

Trump’s arrival was anticipated around mid-morning, amid strict security protocols.