The 2025 Ryder Cup is heating up at Bethpage Black, and Team USA is making a strong impression in the opening celebrity scramble. On Wednesday, a 10-hole scramble kicked off the festivities, featuring notable names from sports and entertainment. Eli Manning and Michael Strahan teed off for the U.S., while Europe fielded stars like Teemu Selanne and Brooklyn Beckham.

The celebrity scramble set the tone for the week, drawing huge crowds eager to see legends and celebrities on the greens. After the scramble, the main Ryder Cup teams took practice rounds, with the evening’s opening ceremony moved up a day due to rain forecasts.

Ryder Cup 2025 captains Keegan Bradley and Luke Donald at a press conference.

Ryder Cup Captains Under the Microscope

As always, captains face intense scrutiny over pairings, captain’s picks, and match strategies. Whether it’s Brian Daboll and Aaron Glenn or Aaron Boone and Carlos Mendoza, every decision is second-guessed by fans and analysts alike. U.S. captain Keegan Bradley emphasized the importance of leadership this week, saying, “I believe the captain can make a difference.”

Bryson DeChambeau: Team USA’s X-Factor

Bryson DeChambeau remains the focal point for the U.S. team. While he’s one of 12 players, his impact goes far beyond the scorecard. U.S. vice captain Gary Woodland called him “a dominant figure… a guy we’ll rely on”, highlighting his energy and ability to lift the team’s morale. DeChambeau has already wowed the crowds, blasting long drives off the first tee and signing autographs for swarming fans.

Bryson DeChambeau lines up a putt on the ninth green prior to the Ryder Cup 2025.

Michael Strahan Brings Star Power

Michael Strahan plays his shot from the first tee prior to the Ryder Cup 2025 at Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course on September 24, 2025 in Farmingdale, New York.

Amid the golf action, Michael Strahan’s presence on the U.S. side added a unique blend of athletic star power and celebrity appeal. Known for his NFL dominance and larger-than-life personality, Strahan helped draw attention to the Ryder Cup scramble, mingling with fans and joining Eli Manning on the tee box. His participation highlights the Ryder Cup’s growing crossover appeal, bridging professional sports and celebrity entertainment.

Former NFL player Michael Strahan signs autographs near the second tee prior to the Ryder Cup 2025 at Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course on September 24, 2025 in Farmingdale, New York

The Buzz on Social Media

From Bryson’s booming drives to Strahan’s appearances, social media is buzzing. Fans are sharing clips of the celebrity scramble, debating team strategies, and weighing in on captain decisions. The excitement is building as the official matches begin Friday, with Team USA hoping to leverage star energy, skill, and the electric atmosphere at Bethpage Black.