The 2025 Ryder Cup ended in dramatic fashion at Bethpage Black, but the closing ceremony was overshadowed by an awkward moment involving a PGA of America announcer.
As Team Europe celebrated their stunning victory over the United States, the trophy presentation took a wrong turn when the announcer made a glaring error. Instead of correctly acknowledging Europe’s win, the official initially referenced the wrong team, sparking confusion among fans and players alike.
Video of the blunder quickly spread across social media, with many calling out the PGA of America for the slip-up. The mix-up was particularly jarring given the high-profile nature of the Ryder Cup, one of golf’s most prestigious and emotional events.
Europe’s captain Luke Donald and his players were visibly amused but maintained their composure during the ceremony. Several players, including Rory McIlroy, were seen laughing and shaking their heads in disbelief as the announcer quickly tried to correct the mistake.
Golf fans were less forgiving. Some labeled the moment “embarrassing” and “disrespectful,” with critics suggesting that such an error diminished the significance of Europe’s hard-fought triumph.
The PGA of America later issued a brief clarification, stressing that the mistake was unintentional and apologizing to both teams for the confusion.
Despite the slip-up, Team Europe’s emphatic win remains the enduring headline from Bethpage Black. The blunder may have provided an awkward footnote, but it did little to dampen Europe’s celebrations as they reclaimed the Ryder Cup on American soil.
