What Would I Shoot at Bethpage Black? (Ryder Cup 2025 Preview)
The eyes of the golf world will be on Bethpage Black from September 26–28, 2025, as the United States and Europe battle for Ryder Cup glory.
Known for its brutal length, punishing rough, and the famous “Warning” sign on the first tee, Bethpage is set to become one of the most unforgettable venues in Ryder Cup history.
Unlike stroke-play majors, the Ryder Cup is all about match play with foursomes, four balls, and singles across three days of high-stakes golf.
With raucous New York crowds backing Team USA, every drive, every putt, and every fist pump will echo through Long Island like never before.
But here’s the big question: what would YOU shoot at Bethpage Black?
Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a 20-handicap, this course demands everything.
Use our GHIN-based score calculator below to see how your game stacks up against the Ryder Cup’s ultimate test.
Bethpage Black: Ryder Cup 2025 Venue
Ryder Cup Format
The Ryder Cup is unlike any other event in golf.
Instead of traditional stroke play, it’s three days of match play that combine strategy, pressure, and team spirit.
The format includes foursomes (alternate shot), fourballs (better ball), and Sunday singles matches where every point matters.
If you want the full breakdown, check out our 2025 Ryder Cup Format guide.
Why Bethpage Black Is a Brutal Test
Bethpage Black is notorious for its difficulty. From the back tees it stretches over 7,400 yards with a slope of 155 and a course rating of 77.5, these are numbers that tell you how punishing it really is.
The rough is thick, the bunkers are deep, and the elevated greens are unforgiving.
Add in the atmosphere of New York fans packed shoulder-to-shoulder around every tee and green, and it becomes a true cauldron of pressure.
Notable U.S. vs. Europe Storylines
The Ryder Cup always delivers drama, but Bethpage could take it to another level.
Team USA will lean on the energy of the home crowd, while Team Europe looks to quiet them with clutch putts and composure.
Expect the spotlight to shine on big names like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Viktor Hovland against Scottie Scheffler, Brooks Koepka, and Jordan Spieth.
The question is: can Europe withstand the Bethpage roar, or will Team USA feed off the New York intensity to reclaim the Cup?
Great question, but that aside, what would you shoot at Bethpage Black?
Bethpage Black Score Calculator
Calculator
The Magic Behind the Calculator
Handicap Index: This is your golfing fingerprint, an average of your best scores, adjusted for the difficulty of the courses you’ve played.
Course Handicap: This adjusts your Index for course difficulty. For Bethpage Black (Course Rating 77.5, Slope 155), this becomes your expected stroke allowance.
How It Works
We bump up the course rating and slope due to course conditions for the Ryder Cup. Deeper rough, faster greens, etc.
Normally a player will shoot 2-5 strokes over their handicap.
They’ll only play to their handicap 20% of the time.
We add three strokes for tournament play or 7 strokes for reality due to nerves, wind, and Ryder Cup pressure.
Estimated Tournament Scores at Bethpage Black
| GHIN Index | Tournament Score | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 92 | Even scratch golfers struggle in thick rough and fast greens. |
| 5 | 98 | Miss a fairway? You’re punching out—and maybe more. |
| 10 | 106 | Expect double bogeys if you don’t manage distance and direction. |
| 15 | 113 | Mid-handicaps will feel every inch of the championship setup. |
| 20 | 120 | Par 4s play like 5s without precision. Bring snacks and humility. |
| 25 | 127 | Some holes may feel unplayable. Score? Just finish with pride. |
What Would a 10 Handicap Golfer Shoot at Bethpage Black?
According to the USGA, the average golfer has a GHIN Index of 14.1. So a 10-handicap is already better than most.
Our calculator estimates a 10 handicap golfer would shoot between 91 and 96 on a calm day. But under tournament conditions, think Ryder Cup and your score jumps to 106.
Sounds tough?
It is.
But that’s what makes Bethpage Black legendary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bethpage Black and the Ryder Cup 2025
What is the course rating and slope of Bethpage Black?
Bethpage Black plays to a course rating of 77.5 and a slope of 155 from the championship tees, making it one of the toughest public courses in the world.
Why is Bethpage Black hosting the 2025 Ryder Cup?
Bethpage Black has a storied history, hosting the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. Its legendary difficulty, combined with New York’s electric golf crowds, makes it the perfect stage for the Ryder Cup.
What score would an average golfer shoot at Bethpage Black?
Even skilled players struggle here. Low handicaps often post scores in the 90s, while most average golfers will easily break 100 — and not in a good way.
Conclusion
Now it’s your turn — plug in your handicap and see what you’d shoot at Bethpage Black, the Ryder Cup’s most intimidating stage.
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