PGA of America Approves Historic $500,000 Compensation Package for US Ryder Cup Team
The PGA of America has approved a historic $500,000 compensation package for Team USA Ryder Cup players and captain, marking the first-ever payment scheme in the event's history. The package, set to begin at Bethpage in 2025, includes a $200,000 stipend for each player and $300,000 for charitable donations.
Current US captain Keegan Bradley has already committed to donating his entire sum to charity. This decision comes despite opposition from 12 former Ryder Cup captains who signed a letter urging the PGA of America to reconsider the payment plan.
Golf trophy on course landscape
The PGA of America emphasized that "no player asked to be compensated" and acknowledged the players' and captains' role in making the Ryder Cup one of golf's most prestigious events.
Tiger Woods previously suggested increasing charitable donations, stating: "It's never really been about getting paid, it's how can we allocate funds to help our sport or help things that we believe in back home."
Golfer speaking at press conference
The event generates significant revenue for the PGA of America, with domestic Ryder Cups earning approximately $25 million a decade ago. This figure is expected to increase substantially for the 2025 event, with tickets selling out at $750 per competition day.
Golden golf trophy on shirt
European players will continue to play without compensation, with Rory McIlroy notably stating he would pay to represent the European team. The new payment structure marks a significant shift from the tradition established since the first competition in 1927.