Team USA Ryder Cup Shirt Sparks Controversy Resembling Rory McIlroy

Ahead of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, Team USA has sparked controversy with official merchandise featuring a $65 Ralph Lauren T-shirt that appears to display a silhouette closely resembling Rory McIlroy’s distinctive swing finish. McIlroy, who will represent Europe in his eighth consecutive Ryder Cup, acknowledged the similarity with a wry comment, noting it looked "more like Adam Scott than me," but expressed no objection to American fans potentially wearing the shirt. The silhouette has been widely recognized by golf insiders and fans as McIlroy’s, leading to criticism of Team USA for this merchandising blunder, which some view as a significant oversight given the intense rivalry between the teams. Team USA members will be paid for the first time in Ryder Cup history, with each player receiving a substantial sum, while Europe aims to defend its 2023 victory. The event is highly anticipated as a premier golf contest emphasizing national pride and match-play competition. Despite the merchandise mix-up, McIlroy remains focused on the competition, preparing alongside his European teammates for the tournament starting September 26.