Justin Rose has taken a swipe at Team USA a few days before the start of the 2025 Ryder Cup. The Englishman suggested that the Americans have been trying too hard to act like a team, while Europe’s bond comes more naturally. Speaking ahead of the tournament at Bethpage Black, Rose suggested that Team USA’s attempts to force team spirit might backfire when the pressure mounts.
Rose Says Being A Great Team Is More Than Being Best Mates
Rose has previously featured in six Ryder Cups, and the 45-year-old said that the United States often focuses on creating an image of togetherness, but that does not necessarily help them when the pressure is on. He argued that Europe’s identity and history in the event give them a stronger and more natural connection. He said the Americans are trying to show their players are all best friends, while the European side draws on tradition and a shared vision built over decades.
“I think the US team have definitely bonded a lot more in recent years, and I think that they do have pockets of good friendships,” Rose said. “But I think the Americans have gotten a little bit… they think being a great team is about being best mates. I really don’t think that’s what being a great team is. Being a great team means having a kind of a real good theme and having an identity that has come from players before you, and you all buy into that vision.
Rose believes that the Americans have overcomplicated things by trying to create friendships off the course instead of focusing on what binds them together on it. The 45-year-old also stressed that Europe’s approach is not based on gimmicks or forced bonding sessions. Instead, he said the players buy into the culture of those who came before them.
“You don’t have to be having the greatest time in the world to do that,” he added. “Although, inevitably, we do have a great time doing that. I think America have tried too hard to become a team, whereas Europe is a bit more natural and organic, and I think it comes from deeper roots in a way.”
Rose Ready For “Crazy Fans and Chaos”
Fans at Bethpage Black are set to create one of the most hostile atmospheres Europe has faced. The New York crowd brings unmatched energy and passion, and Rose admitted they will challenge him and his teammates with relentless noise and pressure. However, he insisted that Europe’s deeper sense of identity will help them cope when the heat is on.
Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm revealed at the weekend that Team Europe has been practicing with virtual reality headsets to prepare for the hostile environment they’ll likely face at Bethpage Black. Although Rose didn’t say anything about the use of the technology, the Englishman labelled the fans as “crazy” and insisted that he is fully expecting “chaos” at the Ryder Cup. Europe claimed five of the last seven matches, but oddsmakers favour Team USA at Bethpage because they historically dominate on home soil.
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