The excitement is building. As golf fans across the UK gear up for the 2025 Ryder Cup, there’s one question on everyone’s mind: What time does Day 1 of the Ryder Cup officially begin? Held at Bethpage Black in New York, this iconic event pits Europe against the USA in a thrilling test of team golf.
With a packed schedule, live coverage, and a charged atmosphere, understanding the timing and structure of Day 1 is essential to enjoying every moment.
Let’s walk through the full breakdown of what fans can expect when the Ryder Cup tees off on Friday, 26th September 2025.
What Is the Full Schedule for the Opening Day of the Ryder Cup 2025?
Day 1 of the Ryder Cup officially kicks off with Morning Foursomes at 7:10 AM ET (12:10 PM BST). This is followed by the Afternoon Four-Ball matches at 12:25 PM ET (5:25 PM BST).
Here’s a quick look at the Friday schedule (all times in ET):
| Event | Time |
| Gates Open | 5:00 AM |
| Morning Foursomes Begin | 7:10 AM |
| Afternoon Four-Ball Matches Begin | 12:25 PM |
| Gates Close | 7:00 PM |
| Box Office Hours | 4:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
Fans arriving early will experience the electric atmosphere and grab a front-row seat to one of golf’s greatest rivalries.
When and Where Does the Ryder Cup 2025 Take Place?
The 2025 Ryder Cup is being held at the legendary Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York, from September 23–28, 2025. Day 1 of competitive play is Friday, 26th September.
Bethpage Black is renowned for its challenging layout, and it has hosted major championships in the past. This marks the first time the Ryder Cup is being played at this iconic public course.
What Happens During the Opening Ceremonies and When Are They?
Please note a schedule change: the Opening Ceremonies now take place on Wednesday, 24th September at 4:00 PM ET.
Here’s the key timeline:
- Pre-Show Begins: 3:00 PM ET
- Opening Ceremonies Begin: 4:00 PM ET
Thursday Ryder Cup+ ticket holders who purchased before 5:00 PM ET on 23rd September will automatically receive access to Wednesday’s event via SeatGeek.
What Is the Format for the Friday Matches at the Ryder Cup?
The Friday format includes two sessions:
- Morning Foursomes (alternate shot format)
- Afternoon Four-Balls (best ball format)
In foursomes, teammates alternate shots, offering a true test of teamwork. In four-ball, both players play their own ball, and the best score counts. Each session features four matches, totalling eight matches on Day 1.
What Are the Morning Foursomes Matches and Who Is Playing?
The morning session matchups, announced Thursday afternoon, are as follows:
- Match 1 – 7:10 AM: DeChambeau/Thomas (USA) vs. Rahm/Hatton (EUR)
- Match 2 – 7:26 AM: Scheffler/Henley (USA) vs. Åberg/Fitzpatrick (EUR)
- Match 3 – 7:42 AM: Morikawa/English (USA) vs. McIlroy/Fleetwood (EUR)
- Match 4 – 7:58 AM: Schauffele/Cantlay (USA) vs. MacIntyre/Hovland (EUR)
Each match will have fans glued to the action, with legends and rising stars going head-to-head.
What Time Do the Afternoon Four-Ball Matches Begin and Who Will Play?
The Afternoon Four-Ball matches are scheduled as follows:
- Match 1: 12:25 PM ET
- Match 2: 12:41 PM ET
- Match 3: 12:57 PM ET
- Match 4: 1:13 PM ET
As of now, the pairings for these matches remain TBA, and they will be announced shortly before tee-off.
How Are Ryder Cup Pairings Decided for Day 1?
Pairings are determined independently by each team captain. For example, Keegan Bradley may choose a duo like Scheffler and DeChambeau, without knowing who Luke Donald is pairing them against.
Not all 12 players from each team will compete in every session. Four players from each side will sit out each half of the day, adding a layer of strategic depth to the contest.
How Can Fans Watch the Ryder Cup Live in the UK?
British fans can watch Day 1 action on Sky Sports Golf, with full coverage including:
- Build-up Show: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM BST
- Foursomes: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM BST
- Fourballs: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM BST
Streaming options include:
- NOW passes for non-Sky customers
- Sky Sports App
- RyderCup.com, Peacock, and YouTube (for selected live matches)
What Is the On-Site Experience Like at Bethpage Black?
The 2025 Ryder Cup offers an immersive experience for those lucky enough to attend. Fans can download the On-Site Guide App, which includes:
- Real-time player locations
- Interactive course map
- Shot-by-shot updates
- Video highlights and live audio
From merchandise shops to fan zones, the venue is designed to keep spectators engaged all day.
What Should Visitors Know About Parking, Tickets, and Entry Times?
- Public Parking: Located at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road, Farmingdale, NY
- Shuttles: Free transport to and from the venue
- Gates Open on Friday: 5:00 AM ET
- Box Office Hours: 4:30 AM – 5:30 PM ET
Ensure you have your Ryder Cup+ tickets ready in the SeatGeek app for scanning.
How Can You Access the Official Ryder Cup App for Match Updates?
Available on iOS and Android, the Ryder Cup App lets users:
- Manage tickets
- Stream matches
- Follow live scoring
- Access press conferences
- Use GPS-based navigation at Bethpage
Search for “Ryder Cup” in the App Store or Google Play.
What Is the Broadcast and Streaming Schedule for Friday?
| Platform | Time (ET) | Coverage |
| USA Network | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Live Coverage |
| Peacock & YouTube | 7:05 AM – 6:00 PM | Featured Matches |
| Golf Channel | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Post-Round Coverage |
British viewers can tune in on Sky Sports Golf for full-day coverage.
How Do the Ryder Cup Practice Rounds Work?
Practice rounds take place Tuesday to Thursday, with no set tee times. Players come and go at their discretion, and pairings are displayed on course-wide video boards.
These sessions offer a chance for fans to watch players in a more relaxed environment.
What Should Fans Expect From Day 1 of the Ryder Cup 2025?
With both captains opting for strategic pairings and the pressure of early momentum, Day 1 could set the tone for the entire tournament.
Expect intensity, drama, and world-class golf from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Conclusion: Why Is Day 1 of the Ryder Cup So Crucial?
Day 1 of the Ryder Cup is not just the beginning, it’s a statement of intent. Captains test their tactics, players battle nerves, and fans witness matchplay at its finest.
Whether you’re at Bethpage or watching from the UK, Friday is a day no golf fan should miss.
FAQs About Ryder Cup Day 1 Schedule
What Time Does the Ryder Cup Start on Friday?
Day 1 matches begin at 7:10 AM ET / 12:10 PM BST with Morning Foursomes.
How Many Matches Are Played on Day 1?
There are eight matches in total, four in the morning and four in the afternoon.
Can I Watch the Ryder Cup for Free Online?
Yes, some matches are available for free on RyderCup.com, YouTube, and the Ryder Cup App.
What Is the Difference Between Foursomes and Four-Balls?
Foursomes use alternate shots between teammates; four-balls allow both players to play their ball and count the best score.
Do All Players Compete in Every Session?
No, four players from each team sit out each session, as decided by the captains.
Where Can I Get Live Updates If I’m Not Watching?
The Ryder Cup App offers real-time scoring, video highlights, and audio broadcasts.
What’s the Best Way to Stream the Ryder Cup in the UK?
UK viewers can stream through Sky Sports, NOW TV, or the Sky Sports App.
