


Who’s buying?
If you’re planning to attend the 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, think about pregaming.
While double-digit beer prices are nothing new to those who flock to Yankee Stadium or Madison Square Garden, the PGA of America has taken a sledgehammer to the ethos of “The People’s Country Club” by charging fans a minimum price of $15 per beer.
A “premium beer” costs $19 (plus tax and tip) and a hard seltzer is listed for $16, while a non-alcoholic Michelob Ultra Zero runs $12.
The cost of four 16-ounce Bud Lights, plus tax, will cost about as much as a New York State resident pays to play a weekday round at the legendary course ($70).
Things don’t get any cheaper if you want a mixed drink, with an All-American Transfusion costing spectators $19.50.
But there was no sticker shock for the many who walked away with beer cans before 9 a.m., nor should it be expected amongst a crowd that coughed up $255 to attend practice rounds and $750 per day of official play, which includes food and non-alcoholic beverages.
More than 500,000 fans applied for Ryder Cup tickets, which sold out in 48 hours, and featured a premium hospitality package for $10,000 per day.

The massive merchandise tent, located just beyond the main entrance of the event, features polo shirts for $145, sweatshirts for $245 and commemorative coins signed by U.S. captain Keegan Bradley, listed for as much as $7,500.
Tickets to this year’s Masters cost $140 per day, while tickets to the U.S. Open at Oakmont could be purchased for $150.