Editor’s Note:
The 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black was unforgettable—but not just for the golf. Fan behavior became the headline, with heckling, insults, and even a drink thrown into the crowd. Players and organizers condemned the conduct, reminding us all that spectator etiquette isn’t just tradition—it’s what keeps golf enjoyable for everyone.
6 minutes read time.
For many of us, golf isn’t just a pastime—it’s part of life. As senior golfers, going to a live tournament can be one of the great pleasures: walking the fairways, feeling the tension on a pivotal putt, supporting your favorites in person.
But it’s also a reminder that being a respectful spectator matters more than ever. The Ryder Cup showed what happens when etiquette breaks down. Let’s look at how you can do it right.
This is the golden rule. Stop moving, stay quiet, and let the player focus. At the Ryder Cup, some fans shouted during swings in an attempt to rattle opponents. It didn’t just look bad—it crossed the line of fair play.
🗣️ “Respect the silence—one small noise can change a shot.”
👉 Pro Tip: Put your phone on silent—vibrate and shutter clicks count as distractions too.
Volunteers are there for a reason. They raise signs for silence, direct crowd movement, and keep both players and fans safe. During Ryder Cup weekend, marshals and security had their hands full managing fans who ignored basic instructions. Respect the ropes, listen to officials, and follow their signals without complaint.
Flash photos and mid-swing snapshots are as disruptive as loud voices. During the Ryder Cup, the atmosphere was already tense; phones only added to the distractions. Check the policy before you go. Use your phone sparingly and always away from play.
Applaud a great shot, cheer a long putt, and celebrate the big moments. But there’s a big difference between cheering and jeering. In New York, some fans resorted to chants and personal insults, crossing a line that players openly condemned.
👏 “Cheer the great shots, not the bad ones.”
👉 Keep it short, keep it classy, and let the golf be the star.
Golf balls don’t always land where intended. Stay alert, protect yourself if you hear “Fore!”, and never touch a ball in play. Also, respect sightlines. Don’t hold up umbrellas or block seated fans. At the Ryder Cup, jostling for a better view often added to the chaos.
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Players deserve the room to focus. Don’t crowd them, chase autographs mid-round, or step into their paths. At Bethpage, some spectators pressed too close and hurled taunts during walks between holes. If you want a signature, wait until after the round in the designated areas.
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen—these are essentials. And while enjoying a drink is fine, letting alcohol fuel rowdy behavior ruins the day for everyone. Some of the worst Ryder Cup moments came from fans who had one too many.
🎩 “Golf etiquette is about respect—for the game, the players, and fellow fans.”
Movement during a shot can break concentration. At Bethpage, several interruptions mid-swing were called out by players. Be patient. Move only after shots are played or when marshals wave you through.
Golf is a shared experience. Keep conversations low, avoid pushing for spots, and let everyone enjoy the view. Courtesy turns a crowded gallery into a pleasant community.
Teach them the basics: quiet during swings, no running, no touching golf balls. A tournament can inspire kids, but they need guidance so they don’t add to the distractions.
A golf course is a work of art. Don’t litter, trample restricted areas, or damage turf. Treat it with the same care you’d want others to show your own home course.
Etiquette is one part of the equation—comfort is the other. Especially if you’re over 60, these tips make a day at the course more enjoyable:
The Ryder Cup showed us what happens when fan behavior crosses the line: extra security, player frustration, and headlines focused on chaos instead of competition. The takeaway is simple—golf is better when respect rules the day.
As senior fans, we can lead by example. We know the traditions, we value the quiet moments, and we can show younger fans what true golf etiquette looks like.
For many of us in our 60s, 70s, or beyond, attending a live golf event is about more than watching swings—it’s about connecting with the game we’ve loved for decades.
By practicing proper etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the day more but also help preserve golf’s spirit. So grab your walking shoes, pack your hat and sunscreen, and step onto the course ready to be part of what makes golf truly special: a respectful, passionate, and unforgettable experience.
It’s hard not to like this guy!
We’d love to hear from you! Did you agree with our take on spectator etiquette? Have you ever seen poor fan behavior at a tournament—or maybe a great example of respect in action?
Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your experiences and insights help keep the game we all love enjoyable for every player and fan.
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