Spectators at this year’s Ryder Cup will face unprecedented security measures, with organisers confirming that golf range finders will be among a list of prohibited items when Donald Trump attends Friday’s opening day at Bethpage Black.
The decision to ban range finders — commonly used by players and fans to measure the distance to the hole — is part of a sweeping security operation designed to protect the US president and those in attendance at one of golf’s most iconic tournaments.
The measure comes after it emerged that the gunman responsible for the 2024 assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania had reportedly been spotted using a range finder shortly before the shooting.
The Ryder Cup’s statement warned fans to expect airport-style checks and multiple screening points across the sprawling Long Island venue.
“Those attending the Ryder Cup on Friday, September 26, should expect enhanced security measures and additional restrictions in place at Bethpage Black,” organisers said.
“Ticketed attendees are strongly urged to arrive as early as possible and should budget extra time as they plan their day.”
Security will include TSA-style screening near the clubhouse, grandstands, and key spectator areas.
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Spectators at this year’s Ryder Cup will face unprecedented security measures, with organisers confirming that golf range finders will be among a list of prohibited items when Donald Trump attends Friday’s opening day at Bethpage Black
|REUTERS
Anyone leaving those secure zones will need to be re-screened before re-entry, with gates opening as early as 5am to accommodate the additional checks.
Range finders are not the only items to be banned.
Fans will also be barred from bringing laptops, tablets, metal or hard-plastic insulated bottles, large vapes and even portable folding chairs. The message from organisers is clear: travel light and plan ahead.
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Donald Trump attended the US Open final clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner earlier this month
|REUTERS
Trump confirmed last month via his Truth Social platform that he would attend the opening day to support US captain Keegan Bradley and his team.
Although he is not expected to arrive in time for the first tee shots, the presence of the president has prompted a security operation of rare scale in golf.
The measures follow a series of high-profile incidents that have heightened concern around presidential safety, including the assassination of conservative activist and Trump ally Charlie Kirk earlier this month, as well as last year’s attempt on Trump’s life at a Pennsylvania golf course.
On Tuesday, Ryan Routh was found guilty of attempting to assassinate the president during that attack.
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Bethpage Black will play host to the 2025 Ryder Cup | GETTYEnhanced security at sporting events has already drawn criticism from fans in recent months.
At last month’s US Open men’s final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, thousands were delayed by the increased checks, leading to a 37-minute delay to the start of play.
Trump, shown on the big screen inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, was met with a mixed reception, greeted by a smattering of cheers and widespread boos.
Despite the logistical challenges, organisers are determined that the focus remains on the golf. The US team will look to reclaim the trophy from Europe, who stunned them with a dominant 16.5-11.5 victory in Rome two years ago.