Ryder Cup Fans Hit with $1,000 Uber Fares as Chaos Erupts
UPDATE: Fans attending the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, are facing outrageous Uber fares — some exceeding $1,000 — amid chaotic transportation conditions. As gates closed on the first day of competition, ride-sharing demand surged, leaving many spectators struggling to secure affordable rides home.
Golf influencer Paige Spiranac captured the astonishing surge prices in a viral video, exclaiming, “This is insane,” as Uber estimates skyrocketed for trips from the venue. The event, featuring a fierce showdown between Team USA and Europe, attracted huge crowds, but limited parking and public transit options left fans reliant on rideshares.
As fans flooded out of the course, Uber’s dynamic pricing triggered astronomical fare increases, with many reporting quotes ranging from $500 to over $1,000 for rides to nearby Manhattan and local hotels. The situation was exacerbated by a late finish, with Europe leading by three points after Day 1, and a visit from former President Donald Trump tightening security and slowing exits.
This isn’t a new issue; surge pricing has plagued major sporting events for years. However, the Ryder Cup’s unique logistics amplified the problem. One frustrated attendee humorously remarked they’d “just gonna walk” home rather than pay exorbitant fares. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), echoed widespread outrage, highlighting similar experiences from other events, including the U.S. Open where riders faced $200 fares.
The location’s distance from urban infrastructure complicates matters further. Unlike stadiums with robust subway systems, Bethpage Black relies heavily on shuttles and ridesharing. Organizers had warned fans about potential transportation delays, but the combined factors of a high-stakes match and tightened security resulted in a logistical nightmare.
“These prices are criminal,” said one attendee, reflecting the frustration shared by many.
Spiranac, with her 4 million Instagram followers, has brought significant attention to the issue, transforming personal experiences into a broader dialogue about event planning and logistics. Comparisons to other sports events show a troubling trend: when demand spikes in isolated areas, ride-sharing apps exploit the situation, leaving fans feeling trapped and exploited.
This crisis raises critical questions about the sustainability of event management. The PGA of America has already faced backlash over ticket prices, with some reaching $750 per day. The added burden of inflated transportation costs could deter future attendance, especially as golf aims to attract a more diverse audience.
Critics argue that Uber’s pricing model borders on price gouging during monopolistic conditions, particularly during events like the Ryder Cup. A report from CBS Sports noted that the on-course dominance of Europe mirrored the off-course turmoil faced by American fans. Economists highlight how surge pricing can inflate base fares significantly, sometimes by five times or more, as indicated by data from rideshare analytics firm Gridwise.
Looking ahead, the chaos at the Ryder Cup serves as a wake-up call for event organizers. Insiders advocate for integrating improved public transport options, such as expanded Long Island Rail Road services, and incentivizing carpooling to alleviate future transportation issues. As the competition continues, the way organizers address off-course logistics could ultimately shape the event’s legacy.
With the Ryder Cup entering its final day, the urgency for effective transportation solutions is clear. As fans seek to enjoy the thrill of the matches, they must not be overshadowed by the staggering costs of getting home.
