Luke Donald, captain of the European golf team at the 2025 Ryder Cup, just caused a stir with his statement attacking the US team after Europe’s 15.5 – 12.5 victory at Bethpage Black, New York. In the press conference after the tournament, Donald declared: “American golf will never reach the current European level; their level is so poor that it surprises me.” He also said that the US team’s Olympic titles mainly came from “money and connections” rather than strength. This statement immediately caused intense controversy in the international golf community, sparking fierce debate about the competition between the two regions.
Just a few hours later, golf legend Tiger Woods, although not participating in the competition but still a great symbol of American golf, responded. In a post on social network Woods’ sharp response caused many European team members, including Donald, to choose to remain silent in front of the media.
The golf fan community is divided. Some supported Donald, arguing that Europe had excelled with tactics and squad cohesion, led by stars such as Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Shane Lowry. Others sided with Woods, emphasizing that the American team, despite the loss, still has top golfers like Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau, and a history of dominance in major tournaments. Data from the PGA Tour shows that the US has won 26/44 Ryder Cups, although Europe has won 11/14 recent times.
This controversy goes beyond words. Some analysts believe that Donald’s statement could increase tension at future tournaments, especially the 2027 Ryder Cup in Ireland. Meanwhile, fans on X created a series of posts with the hashtag #RyderCupDrama, sharing highlight videos and commenting on the fight. One prominent post read: “Donald is right about his current form, but Tiger reminds us who is the real king.”
This event is not only a story about golf but also reflects the cultural and psychological rivalry between the two regions. Although the results on the field are clear, the battle off the field still seems to have no end. Donald and the European team will need to back up their words with future actions, while the American team will certainly look to regain their honor.
