McIlroy famously called the Ryder Cup an "exhibition" in 2009 but has since conceded he was "naive" to think that of what he now calls the "purest competition in golf"

How Europe Can Win the Ryder Cup Away at Bethpage

A Fast Start, Secret Words & Stability – How Europe Can Win the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage

That was the fired-up cry from Rory McIlroy after Europe clinched the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. And with that, the countdown began for what could be Europe’s greatest away challenge in modern Ryder Cup history – winning on American soil at Bethpage Black.

With the home team dominating the last five editions, European legends say this may be the best shot yet for an away win. Here’s how they believe it can be done.

1. Mental Strength in the “Bear Pit”

Bethpage promises a raucous, partisan crowd. Europe captain Luke Donald is already preparing his players with virtual reality training to simulate fan hostility.

Sir Nick Faldo suggested that each player-caddie pair should have a “secret word” to keep focus and defuse tension after heckles. The idea: laugh it off, refocus, and execute the next shot.

“Something’s going to be said… turn to your caddie, say the code word, smile, and reset.” – Faldo

Colin Montgomerie, who endured harsh abuse in 1999, agrees a quick start is essential to turning the crowd’s energy against the Americans.

“If we can get ahead and stay ahead, the crowd may turn on their own players.”

2. Experience and a Steady Hand in Luke Donald

Nick Faldo says the players will be relying on the European fans at Bethpage to make themselves heard among the Americans

The European camp stood united behind Luke Donald, who returns for a second captaincy after masterminding Rome’s triumph.

Donald boasts a perfect 4-0 playing record, with two wins on US soil.
He started the 2012 Medinah miracle by beating Bubba Watson in the opening singles match.
His meticulous planning began 15 months in advance, focusing on crowd psychology and communication.

Justin Rose, making his seventh appearance, said Donald’s “simplicity and consistency” have been key.

“He’s not adding to the noise. He keeps it simple. That’s genius.” – Rose

3. Stability and Squad Continuity

DeChambeau and Scheffler each won 2½ points in 2021 at Whistling Straits

Europe enters Bethpage with just one team change from Rome – Rasmus Hojgaard replacing his twin Nicolai, who was also part of the 2023 win.

Montgomerie joked:

“Same egg – same team.”

No rookies were selected as wildcards. Donald prioritized battle-tested players, a clear contrast to the rookie-laden US side. Rose praised this choice:

“At home, you can blood rookies. Away, you need experience.”

4. A Proven Formula: Big Names Must Deliver

According to Faldo:

“Your big guys have to do the heavy lifting.”

That means Europe’s “core five” must dominate:

Rory McIlroy – 18 Ryder Cup points
Jon Rahm – LIV Golf player of the year
Tommy Fleetwood – PGA Tour champion
Tyrrell Hatton – consistent major performer
Justin Rose – 15.5 points over six Ryder Cups

Robert MacIntyre, a standout wildcard from Rome, has also emerged as a powerhouse, with two major tour wins and a runner-up finish at the 2025 US Open.

5. Are the US Team Favorites?

Rose and McIlroy both won their singles matches at Medinah in 2012 and are the only two Europeans to be in this year’s side as well

While the US team has home advantage and world number one Scottie Scheffler, critics argue the bottom half of their lineup is vulnerable.

Scheffler is the standout but has cracked under Ryder Cup pressure before.
Bryson DeChambeau returns from LIV Golf.
Veterans like Justin Thomas and Patrick Cantlay have strong records but bring drama.

With four rookies and just 15 Ryder Cup appearances between them, the US team lacks depth compared to Europe’s 32 combined appearances.

Why This May Be Europe’s Moment

Europe has won one away Ryder Cup per decade since 1987. The signs point to a repeat in 2025:

More stable, experienced team
Clear leadership
Better bottom-six matchups
No fear of American lineup

Even American analysts are cautious:

“Our top six is good. Their bottom six is better. That makes Europe slight favorites.” – Alex Miceli, golf writer

Final Word: “Bring on Bethpage!”

Donald knows this is a different beast than Rome. But with a plan in motion, seasoned stars on form, and a quiet confidence, Europe believes this is their time to win away.

As Montgomerie put it:

“I don’t fear the Americans like before. Europe are the stronger 12.”

The countdown to history at Bethpage is on.