European Ryder Cup WAGs Warned To Avoid Hostile Bethpage Crowd 2026

Former European Ryder Cup player Andrew Coltart has warned the wives and families of Team Europe to consider avoiding attending the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black due to the hostile and rowdy atmosphere expected from the American fans. Reflecting on the 1999 Ryder Cup at Brookline, Coltart recalled how some European players' partners faced derogatory abuse from the crowd, fueled by intoxicated spectators, and he suggested that partners watch from a safe, secure location instead of being at the course. Despite the likely desire of partners to support their players in person, the intense and potentially upsetting environment may be too much for them, and crowd control measures are unlikely to prevent abuse. The New York crowd's reputation for loud, passionate support and heckling, especially following Europe’s dominant win in Rome two years ago, has made Team Europe prepare using virtual reality to simulate the hostile environment. Coltart expressed confidence that the players themselves can handle the hostile atmosphere, but he emphasized the importance of protecting their families from mistreatment. This warning highlights ongoing concerns about fan behavior at the Ryder Cup and the challenges faced by players' families in high-pressure sporting events.