You just never know who you'll see at the Ryder Cup. One sports icon is already being noticed — and he's not a spectator, nor a golfer.
You just never know who you'll see at the Ryder Cup.
Athletes, musicians, actors, even the President of the United States are expected to be in attendance at Bethpage Black for the biennial grudge match this weekend. Of course, most of them won't show up until the competition actually starts on Friday, but there's one particular superstar getting noticed already — and he's not just a spectator.
Italian soccer great Gianfranco Zola is the designated personal cart driver for Team Europe Vice Captain Francesco Molinari at Bethpage this week.
Is that Gianfranco Zola with the European team?! 🤔
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) September 23, 2025
We've gone behind the scenes at the #RyderCuppic.twitter.com/FHuXa0Omim
He was spotted with the team during Tuesday's practice rounds, blending in as one of the fellas as he motors Molinari around the grounds. You'd almost never know he's widely regarded as the best forward to ever play for the iconic Chelsea FC.
Zola spent more than 20 years playing professionally, most notably with Chelsea from 1996-2003. He later went on to become the manager of West Ham United and Birmingham City, among other clubs.
His skills on the pitch likely won't be needed at Bethpage this week, but having an athlete of his pedigree around certainly can't hurt Team Europe as it looks to retain the Ryder Cup and win on the road for the first time since 2012.
Editor's note: Stay up-to-date with all the action Tuesday at Bethpage Black with our live updates page.
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Why is soccer legend Gianfranco Zola with Team Europe at the Ryder Cup?
Category: General Sports
