Festivities were in full swing well before the sun rose over Long Island’s Nassau County and some of the world’s best golfers. From the moment gates were opened through the last putt of the day, fans at the 2025 Ryder Cup have been drinking up the festivities and patriotism as 12 of the top American golfers face off with their European counterparts.
And beyond drawing plenty of attention, international competition also brings out a certain level of pride. For proof of that, look no further than the crowds lining Bethpage State Park’s Black Golf Course.
When some patrons worry their support will be drowned out, they turn to louder fashion choices to catch the eye. While traditional golf attire is typically required, the Ryder Cup week has opened the door to bold and brash costumes from American and European spectators alike.
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There was indeed a presidential feeling to the Ryder Cup on Friday. President Donald Trump, a well-known golf fan, joined spectators for the start of the afternoon slate of matches to cheer on a lagging Team USA.
But, if spectators found themselves on Hole 14 during the morning rounds, they might have felt that presidential power before Trump even stepped onto the property.
Friends David Shrimpton (Abe Lincoln), Scott Hodges (Teddy Roosevelt), Joe Heath (Thomas Jefferson), and Corey Fredrick (George Washington) said they had kicked plans around for almost a year before deciding to create a living tribute to Mount Rushmore as they watched on from the left side of the green.
Just before finding the recreated chiseled ex-presidents, other historical tributes made their appearance. Namely, the “Fore Fathers” donning the names of legendary Americans like Alexander Hamilton, Philip Schuyler, and James Madison on the back of caddy bibs. Graciously stopping to take photos with fans of Team USA and Europe alike, the tricorn-hat-wearing group radiated the gratitude of how lucky they are to be alive right now.
Not to be outdone by historical figures was Lady Liberty making an appearance, doing an impression of her lesser-known sister in Times Square’s Margaritaville, which holds a cocktail.
Even if you can’t draw inspiration from history, there’s plenty of pop culture figures to place your national pride in. Like Joe Dirt, or more specifically, four of them, who were milling about behind the grandstand after the morning’s first groups started their rounds.
While group costumes are always fun, they’re not necessary, especially when you’re dressed like Sam Draddy. He was so confident in his oversized gold chain and American Flag suit that it was of no bother that the rest of his crew went for a more conservative golf look.
Plenty of European supporters got in on the fanfare, too. This hard-to-miss duo, sporting European Union Yellow scallycaps and Blue star-spangled vests and pants, wondered if it was too early to “throw up the victory sign” as the Europeans romped out to an early lead in the morning session.
Sometimes, the most recognizable costumes are the best. Though they lack ties to Team USA or Europe directly, friends Anthony and Brian, dressed as Mario and Luigi, respectively, stood out among the crowd. Noting his Italian heritage, Brian said the day’s look harkened back to 2023 in Italy, the last time the Ryder Cup was played. He believes wearing the Luigi costume then helped propel Europe to its eventual three-point victory in Rome, and wants to keep the good energy flowing.