The Ryder Cup rip-off: Prices at Marco Simone Golf & Country club hit extortionate levels with burgers costing fans £17, a beer setting spectators back £7 and gin and tonics priced at a whopping £16

Fans looking to enjoy a drink while watching the 2023 Ryder Cup will be shocked to see the prizes on offer at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club.

The Ryder Cup gets underway in Rome on Friday, with Team Europe looking to extend their stunning home record against Team USA, which dates back to 1999.

Ryder Cup fever has already reached the iconic stage, with the star-studded celebrity match seeing tennis star Novak Djokovic and Gareth Bale seal victory in Italy.

However, it has been a competition unlike any other in its long, 96-year history, with the persistent rumblings of LIV rebels missing out on fighting in the background.

However, attendees could be forgiven for having their attention ripped away from the action and firmly focused on their wallets once the gates do indeed open on Friday morning.

Cocktail prices at Rome’s Marco Simone Golf & Country club see fans parting with £15.60 for a large drink

Golf enthusiasts can charge their phones on the course, but only if they are willing to spend €17.33 to rent a charger

Golf enthusiasts can charge their phones on the course, but only if they are willing to spend €17.33 to rent a charger

All four burger options on the course cost £17.24, with water also costing an additional £3.47.

All four burger options on the course cost £17.24, with water also costing an additional £3.47.

Food and drink prices at the biggest sporting festivals have always made even the most ardent fans wince, and the Ryder Cup will be no different.

With the heat expected to be around 29 degrees Celsius in Rome this weekend, fans may think twice before quenching their thirst.

Cocktails are perhaps unsurprisingly the more expensive options, with a gin and tonic, negroni and an old fashioned setting going back to the tune of £15.60 (€18).

A beer will also be an expensive option for golf fans, at £6.93 (€8), and even water costs £3.47 (€4).

In terms of food, fans can choose from four different burger options, although all four will be priced the same.

Between the beef, chicken and vegetarian options, supporters will all get around £17.24 (€19.90) to satisfy their hunger as the tournament progresses.

However, it’s not just the food and drinks that will cause a heavy blow to fans’ wallets this weekend.

As the day of play will last several hours, phone batteries will gradually run out as the day progresses, but fear not, golf enthusiasts: you can rent a charger for £17.33 (€20) or buy one for £ 40 (€34.66).

Team Europe will look to defend their 24-year unbeaten run at home in the Ryder Cup

Team Europe will look to defend their 24-year unbeaten run at home in the Ryder Cup

Gareth Bale and Novak Djokovic won the celebrity-studded All Star match in Rome on Wednesday

Gareth Bale and Novak Djokovic won the celebrity-studded All Star match in Rome on Wednesday