Masters champion Rory McIlroy has arrived at Bethpage Black, where he has met up with his European Ryder Cup teammates.
The Northern Irishman had already stepped up his preparations for the Ryder Cup, which gets underway later this month, by competing in last week’s BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
That came off the back of his win at the Irish Open, where McIlroy notched up his 20th DP World Tour title.
Kildare was another impressive performance for the 36-year-old, who previously finished T20 at Wentworth – an event that included most of his European Ryder Cup teammates.
Alex Noren, one of Luke Donald’s vice-captains, ended up taking home the title in what was his second victory at the event.
McIlroy Ryder Cup preparations are already turning heads after footage of his first tee shot surfaced online.
The post gained plenty of attention, with one fan commenting: “What’s this line?!”
Another added: “This is insanely humbling,” while a third wrote: “His line is a shank for the average Bethpage tee ball.”
He’s aiming over the tree. Absolutely insane Rory line. https://t.co/YFIcVg6PpM
— Tim Whelan (@Tim_Whelan216) September 15, 2025
Others were equally surprised, with comments like: “Wait that’s not the line, I’ve played there?” and “Ahh… just like the architect intended… over the trees onto the green!”
Another observer noted how much room players may have off the tee during tournament play, saying: “These guys are going to be chipping into the first green with how far up the tee will be next week.”
— Jamie Greaves | Golf Fitness (@JGGolfFitness) September 15, 2025
That line https://t.co/Fp0wchfh5S
Some fans expressed their anticipation for a bold approach off the first hole, with one writing: “If the first tee shot is that line, we’ve got a cracker on our hands,” while another added: “Can’t wait to see Rory vs Bryson [DeChambeau] on hole 1.”
McIlroy has a strong history in the Ryder Cup, having played for Europe seven times.
He has won five out of those seven appearances, with a personal record of 16 wins, 13 losses, and four ties.
With 18 points, he is currently eighth on the all-time European list, a total that is expected to increase at Bethpage Black.
He has been clear about the challenge ahead, often mentioning how tough it is to win an away Ryder Cup in the lead-up to this year’s event.
The challenges extend beyond just the opposition. The fans and a strong US squad will play their part, but so will the course itself.
Bethpage Black is not an easy walk for anyone. However, big hitters like McIlroy could find some advantage given its length.
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