The Ryder Cup 2025 promises drama for the ages as Europe once again seeks to defend their title at Bethpage Black (September 25-28) following their victory in Rome two years ago. Over the next few weeks and months, captains Keegan Bradley and Luke Donald will be hoping their players hit form as they seek to narrow down the playing pool. This edition underscores a generational battle along with the usual contrasts between the US and Europe. Excitement is on the cards.
Who are the favourites?
Just a couple of months out from the tournament, the US are slight favourites with the experts. Paddy Power offer a range of outright golf betting odds, like The Open Championship odds, as well as in-play options too and odds for the upcoming tournament. At the time of writing, they too have the US as the team to beat at odds of 5/6. Their star man, Scottie Scheffler, is the player in form and goes into most tournaments as the bookies favourite. Rory McIlroy will be Europe’s star man, but with inconsistent form hampering him, Europe may need to rely on others to carry the team to victory. As with any Ryder Cup, home advantage plays a big part, and this probably swings the scale in favour of the Americans.
Statistical Edge & Key Performance Indicators
Having said that, it is Europe who has dominated the competition since 2010. They have won six of the last eight but came unstuck across the Atlantic last time out in 2021, losing convincingly 19-9. The US hold an edge in the top 10 of the world rankings, while the punishing layout of Bethpage Black will play in their favour, along with the famous partisan home crowd. The Americans boost longer drivers in their ranks, which can become key metrics in courses like this. However, as we have seen through the years, sometimes these indicators count for nothing, and factors like team chemistry and momentum can take over. On paper, the data shows the US as the one with all the advantages, but Europe tends to excel as the underdog as they come together as a team.
Experience & Captaincy Strategy
The likely inclusion of Europe’s newer players like Ludvig Åberg and Rasmus Højgaard symbolises a shift towards data-driven play. Captain Luke Donald may prefer to pair them with experienced competitors like McIlroy and Rahm, whose form has slightly improved in 2025. For the US, Keegan Bradley may end up selecting himself to play given his fine form, while he has also publicly said he tries to pick the brain of basketball great and golf fanatic Michael Jordan to try and gain that edge that could swing the contest. Beyond this, custom pairing by compatibility, like strokes gained or under-pressure performance, may change the course of matches.
The 2025 Ryder Cup promises much, and there are plenty of interesting storylines to keep track of. As it stands, the US are favourites, but with numerous factors at play, like home advantage, form and experience, this could be one of the most compelling tournaments for years. The odds suggest a close-fought contest, and every neutral probably hopes for the same.
