The 2025 Ryder Cup has brought thrilling golf and heated controversy in equal measure, with Team Europe enjoying an early lead over the United States while two of its biggest stars face an uncertain future in the tournament.
At Bethpage Black in New York, Luke Donald’s European side stormed into a 5½–2½ advantage on Friday, putting themselves in prime position to retain the famous trophy. But the celebrations have been tempered by the revelation that Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton may be barred from future Ryder Cups because of their ties to LIV Golf.
According to reports, both players were only allowed to compete this year after filing appeals against the DP World Tour, which fined them for appearances on the breakaway circuit. Without those appeals, they would have been banned outright. Rahm, one of Europe’s marquee names, admitted that he is unsure how the dispute will end, saying: “I have no idea. I completely forgot about it, which is a good thing. I hope I forget about it until it happens.”
The Spaniard has no plans to pay the fines, leaving his participation in future events in jeopardy. Meanwhile, Hatton faces the same uncertain fate as the appeals process continues.
Adding another layer of tension, Ryder Cup officials have reminded players on both sides that strict rules apply throughout the tournament. The event is governed by the Official Rules of Golf, drafted by the USGA and R&A, meaning competitors can be punished with penalty strokes, loss of holes, or even disqualification.
Breaches could include using prohibited equipment, playing from the wrong position, or incorrectly signing a scorecard. More seriously, players can be disqualified for unsporting conduct or if deemed ineligible by officials. Although no one has ever been disqualified from a Ryder Cup before, organizers insist the rules apply just as they would in any other competition.
For now, Europe holds the upper hand on the course, but off it, the potential bans for Rahm and Hatton—and the looming threat of disqualification for any major infraction—cast a shadow over what has already become one of the most dramatic Ryder Cups in recent memory.
