The Ryder Cup
Golf's most prestigious team competition - where legends are born and history is made. Learn about the tournament's rich history, format, and legendary moments.
About The Ryder Cup
The Ultimate Team Competition
Every two years, the Ryder Cup features 12 of the top European golfers going head-to-head against 12 of the best players from the United States in a three-day, match-play competition that transforms individual stars into passionate teammates.
Named after English businessman Samuel Ryder who donated the trophy in 1927, this biennial contest has evolved from a US-Great Britain competition to the epic USA vs Europe battle we know today.
Tournament Format
Day 1 - Friday
Morning: Foursomes
4 matches - Alternate shot format where partners take turns hitting the same ball
Afternoon: Four-Ball
4 matches - Best ball format where each player plays their own ball
Day 2 - Saturday
Morning: Foursomes
4 matches - Same format as Friday morning
Afternoon: Four-Ball
4 matches - Same format as Friday afternoon
Day 3 - Sunday
Singles Matches
12 individual head-to-head matches that often determine the winner
Points needed to win
Legendary Moments
Miracle at Medinah (2012)
The greatest comeback in Ryder Cup history. Europe trailed 10-6 entering Sunday but won 8½ of 12 singles matches to retain the Cup in dramatic fashion.
The Concession (1969)
Jack Nicklaus conceded Tony Jacklin's 2-foot putt on the 18th hole, ensuring the match ended in a tie. The ultimate act of sportsmanship.
Brookline Comeback (1999)
Justin Leonard's 45-foot putt sparked wild celebrations and the famous "green invasion" as USA completed a stunning comeback from 10-6 down.
War on the Shore (1991)
One of the most intense Ryder Cups ever at Kiawah Island, coming down to the final putt by Bernhard Langer that would have tied the match.
O'Connor's 2-Iron (1989)
Christy O'Connor Jr.'s perfect 2-iron shot to 5 feet on the 18th hole at The Belfry helped Europe retain the Cup.
Clarke's Emotion (2006)
Darren Clarke's emotional victory just weeks after his wife's passing, winning all three matches and breaking down in tears after his singles win.
Trophy & Traditions
The Samuel Ryder Trophy
The Ryder Cup trophy stands 17 inches tall and is made of gold-plated silver. It features a golfer in plus-four knickers swinging a club, modeled after Samuel Ryder's golf instructor, Abe Mitchell.
The trophy weighs approximately 4 pounds and is valued at over $50,000. Unlike many sporting trophies, the original is always presented to the winning team.
Prize Money
USA Team: Each player receives $500,000 for competing, with $300,000 going to charity
European Team: No monetary compensation - they play for pride and glory
Key Traditions
Opening Ceremony
A spectacular ceremony featuring both teams, national anthems, and the official handover of the trophy from the previous hosts.
Team Rooms
Separate team rooms where players strategize, bond, and prepare. These become the heart of team spirit throughout the week.
Singles Envelope
Captains must submit their Sunday singles lineup in a sealed envelope before Saturday play ends, adding strategic intrigue.
Victory Celebrations
Wild celebrations, champagne showers, and the ceremonial raising of the trophy mark the culmination of golf's most emotional event.
2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black
The 45th edition takes place at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York - one of golf's most challenging public courses, known for its brutal length and demanding layout.
September 26-28, 2025
Three days of intense competition
Bethpage Black
Farmingdale, New York
Europe Defending
After 2023 victory in Rome