Kathy Hochul Booed During Ryder Cup Ceremony as New York Crowd Voices Disapproval

New York Governor Kathy Hochul was met with a hostile reception at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony at Bethpage Black where she was loudly booed multiple times by spectators.

The event began with high anticipation for the matchup between Team USA and Team Europe, but it wasn’t the visiting side that drew the coldest response. Instead, Hochul, a Democrat, faced waves of boos from the Long Island crowd.

The 67-year-old governor appeared undeterred, smiling and waving an American flag as she was introduced by event host Carson Daly. The jeers continued, however, with a second outburst of boos breaking out when Hochul’s name was mentioned during European captain Luke Donald’s address. Fans again voiced their disapproval a third time when Team USA captain Keegan Bradley thanked her for supporting the tournament.

Hochul, who assumed office in 2021, currently holds a 54 percent job approval rating, according to a Siena College poll. Her favorability rating sits at 45 percent, with 42 percent of voters viewing her unfavorably.

While the governor endured an icy reception, captains Bradley and Donald were warmly welcomed by the crowd. The ceremony itself was moved up by a day to avoid heavy rain expected on Thursday.

Bradley praised his team, telling them:

"You're bonded in a way I've never seen before. I've learned so much from you, about how to live, about how to compete, and about how to lead. You've changed me as a player and as a person. You've inspired me every day. Being your captain is an honor of a lifetime. Thank you. We are on a quest to reclaim the Ryder Cup! We face a mighty opponent. The challenge will be fierce. The pressure will be real."

Donald also highlighted the meaning of the tournament, stating:

"The Ryder Cup means so much to each and every one of us. It is unlike anything else in our sport. It is not about prize money or world ranking points. It's about pride. It's about representing your flag, your shirts, and the legacy you leave behind. The American team is rightly proud of their heritage, but so are we. Our European legacy is rooted in resilience, in togetherness and in proving people wrong. Time and again, we've shown that when we come together as one with a shared purpose, we can achieve remarkable things."

He added, "what a place to try and do it again: New York City. New York is a place where if you show up with talent and a fighting spirit, the city will get behind you. Although maybe not if you're wearing European blue this week."

Turning to his players, Donald concluded, "These 12 men are ready. Europe is ready. Enjoy the Ryder Cup, and we'll see you bright and early on Friday morning."

Kathy Hochul Booed During Ryder Cup Ceremony as New York Crowd Voices Disapproval