The gala before the Ryder Cup is probably one of the only occasions where the intensity of the week ahead softens. Rivalries can pause, and members from both sides can gather under one roof to mingle, share a drink, and soak in the glamour before the real competition begins. Yet, in 2025 before a single ball was hit at Bethpage Black, the teams had already been divided in the public eye, not by scorelines but by how they showed up at Hempstead House. 

Team Europe, led by Captain Luke Donald, was the epitome of elegance in their tailored Loro Piana suits, crisp shirts, and matching ties. WAGs complemented this sophistication; notably, Kelley Rahm turned heads in a plunging, see-through dress that added a touch of glamour to the evening.

Team USA also wore suits designed by Ralph Lauren, its official outfitter for the seventh consecutive time, but members skipped ties altogether, pairing open collars with dark jackets. Instead of the classic dress shoe like the Europeans wore, they chose to go with white tennis shoes instead– a more casual look overall. What stands out is that Ralph Lauren’s formal wear package specifically includes ties as part of the standard ensemble for opening ceremonies and welcome dinners. But then again, this isn’t the only time Team USA’s uniform standards have come into question this season. 

 Just weeks before the tournament, a $65 Ralph Lauren T-shirt from the official U.S. Ryder Cup collection caused a stir online. The navy shirt, stamped with “USA Ryder Cup 2025,” featured a golfer in a high-finish follow-through pose. But eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed it looked nothing like an American player and instead bore an uncanny resemblance to Rory McIlroy.

Social media exploded with reactions ranging from disbelief to outright amusement, while McIlroy himself joked that it looked more like Australian golfer Adam Scott. And even this time around, fans have taken to social media to dissect every detail and express their annoyance at the gaffe.

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Team USA social media backlash intensifies

“Europe dressed to win, 1up,” one fan commented, suggesting Team Europe had gained an early psychological advantage. Another strategically-minded observer noted, “Europe already playing CHESS i see…..” implying the Europeans had outmaneuvered their opponents before competition began.

The criticism intensified with pointed commentary. “Put a tie on. Horrible example for his young son,” one fan wrote in response to Scheffler‘s social media post. The reaction reflected how formal attire promotes professionalism and discipline off the course, contrasting with technical golf wear during competition. Similarly harsh reactions followed: “Ugh no ties. What is this a corporate casual meeting? Be better.”

However, some fans interpreted the move in a different way. “Showing up without ties means you’re here to dominate and you don’t care,” one supporter argued, suggesting confidence rather than disrespect.

Still, negative sentiment dominated. “No ties was a miss,” one fan concluded bluntly. Another captured the visual contrast perfectly: “USA going no tie, Team Europe has ties on. I’m here for it.”

The controversy adds pressure to Team USA heading into competition at Bethpage Black, where they’ll need to prove their casual confidence translates to on-course dominance.