The 2025 Ryder Cup on Long Island

For the first time in its nearly 100-year history, the Ryder Cup heads to Long Island’s Bethpage Black Course in Old Bethpage, NY. In this article, you’ll learn firsthand how Orlin & Cohen’s Dr. Ticker is supporting the tournament’s players and caddies as chair of the medical committee. Plus, we’ll explain what the Ryder Cup is, the course-specific challenges golfers face on Long Island’s renowned Bethpage Black, and how they can prepare.

What is the Ryder Cup, and who will play?

Every two years, 12 Americans play 12 Europeans in three pressure-packed days of match play—but how are the teams decided? Well, the rules change from tournament to tournament, but as you may have guessed, it typically includes the top players from the USA and Europe. However, automatic qualification is limited, and teams are selected based on a combination of points earned in qualifying events and captains’ picks.

Unlike most golf tournaments, no prize money changes hands, albeit each player receives a stipend. Players compete for country, continent, and a replica trophy of a gold chalice first donated in 1927 by English seed merchant Samuel Ryder—the tournament’s namesake. (The original Ryder Cup trophy is held at the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland’s headquarters in Great Britain.)

Supporting Golfers at The Ryder Cup: Dr. Ticker’s Role

With over 20 years of on-course medical leadership at major golf championships, Orlin & Cohen’s Jonathan B. Ticker, M.D., is serving as chair of the medical committee in the 2025 Ryder Cup. Dr. Ticker first oversaw on-site care at the 2002 U.S. Open during Tiger Woods’ historic win and has since directed medical operations at the 2009 U.S. Open, 2012 Barclays, and 2019 PGA Championship.

At the 2025 Ryder Cup, Dr. Ticker and his multidisciplinary team will be prepared to treat on court injuries and medical issues. This includes not only the competitors, but all individuals including staff and spectators. Dr. Ticker’s expertise as a fellowship-trained sports medicine and shoulder specialist, along with his familiarity with the course and the demands of match-play scheduling, help the committee spot potential problems early and keep player safety front and center.

The Challenges of Long Island’s Bethpage Black Course for Golfers

Its famous warning sign says it all: WARNING—The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course, Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers. Bethpage Black measures 7,468 yards and features more than seven miles of walking per round. Many of its fairways sit on narrow, natural slopes, forcing players to swing from uneven stances that can stress the ankles, knees, and hips. The bunkers are another signature hazard—most have steep, high faces that demand intense wrist-snapping to escape. This challenging layout, featuring tight fairways, deep rough, and elevated greens, makes Bethpage Black a demanding test for any golfer, including pros.

How Players Can Prepare for the Bethpage Black Course

Incorporating strength blocks that emphasize explosive glute and quad moves like box jumps can help golfers play out of deep bunkers. Mobility routines should focus on mid-back rotation and hip flexor length to ease the strain of swinging from uneven lies. Golfers should also wear supportive, cushioned footwear with thicker midsoles to make the long walks between tees more comfortable. Learn more about common golf injuries and ways to prevent them. If aches, pains, or injuries are keeping you off the green, the fellowship-trained specialists at Orlin & Cohen can help. From weekend golfers to tour professionals, our specialists provide comprehensive care that can get you swinging comfortably again. Request an appointment today.