Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau face Bethpage Black hole that may not play to their strengths

“Sometimes shorter hitters off the tee are particularly good at match play, because you’re hitting first into greens,” he said during an appearance on Golf Channel.

McGinley used the 13th as a prime example of where accuracy could trump distance. “Guys that can’t hit the green in two will have to lay it short of this cross bunker. Sometimes that can be an advantage,” he explained.

“You’re going in with a wedge from nearly 90 yards, you put it there to four or five feet. Maybe your opponent, the big hitter, has missed it into the heavy rough around the green. Now the pressure’s on him to get it up and down.”

The hole does offer a chance for eagle for those with enough length but taking on that risk could easily backfire against players who choose precision over power.

We’ll have to wait until Sunday under Ryder Cup pressure to see which approach wins out.

Rory McIlroy’s scrambling could be a key factor on the 13th at Bethpage Black

McIlroy had several standout moments in Rome, but none more memorable than his incredible chip on the par-3 17th. With an elevated green and little room to work with, he managed to stop the ball right next to the hole after a series of perfectly judged bounces.

His short game has been a major part of his strong form in 2025, highlighted by his Masters win that completed his career grand slam.

McIlroy finished 14th in scrambling on the 2025 PGA Tour, moving up from 17th in 2024. It’s always been one of his reliable strengths.

If he can bring back some of that touch from Rome, it could help level the playing field against shorter hitters who might have an early advantage on certain holes at Bethpage Black.