Donald Trump is expected to delay his arrival at the Ryder Cup in a bid to avoid the chaos that organisers feared could overshadow the opening day at Bethpage Black.
The US President now plans to arrive in “late morning” on Friday, rather than in time for the first tee shots at 7:10am local time.
According to the Daily Mail, the move is likely to come as a relief to PGA of America officials, who have been working closely with the Secret Service to co-ordinate a vast security operation across the 1,500-acre Long Island venue.
There had been growing concern that Trump’s presence could create logistical problems similar to those witnessed at this month’s US Open men’s singles final, which was delayed due to heightened security measures.
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The PGA had reportedly suggested that the President attend the afternoon fourballs instead, to reduce disruption to play and spectator movement.
While Trump’s schedule is famously fluid, multiple insiders now believe the revised plan will see him miss the dramatic first tee spectacle but still take in the action later in the day.
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Donald Trump is expected to delay his arrival at the Ryder Cup in a bid to avoid the chaos that organisers feared could overshadow the opening day at Bethpage Black
|REUTERS
PGA tournament director Bryan Karns explained that any delays to the start of play would be impossible given the tight schedule.
“We actually won’t be able to delay the tee times because we don’t have the evening,” he said.
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Donald Trump's attendance at the US Open final caused chaos for spectators
|REUTERS
“At Arthur Ashe Stadium you can flip the lights on and go late. We don’t have that luxury.
“We need to finish both sessions in daylight so fans get the full experience.”
Karns added that the priority was ensuring the President’s visit could take place safely without diminishing the fan atmosphere that makes the Ryder Cup unique.
“It’s really just a collaboration with the Secret Service to figure out the safest way to get the president on site and allow him to enjoy and be part of what we’re doing, but at the same time not disrupt the general flow,” he added.
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Bethpage Black will play host to the 2025 Ryder Cup | GETTY“You don’t want to impede the first tee or any of the grandstands we expect to be full.”
Trump’s presence will add another layer of intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a high-profile contest.
The former president has long been associated with golf, owning several courses worldwide and frequently attending major events. He last appeared at the Ryder Cup during his first term in office.
This year’s edition at Bethpage Black will mark the first time the tournament has been staged in New York and is expected to attract huge crowds. Organisers will be eager to ensure that the focus remains firmly on the golf — and that the spectacle of the first tee remains uninterrupted.