How much do players get paid for playing in the Ryder Cup?

Playing at the Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious events in sports is a great honor for both European and American players. This tournament generates millions of pounds through television rights and sponsorship deals. Every player participating in the qualification process shares a common goal: representing their respective teams and competing for the coveted gold trophy.

During this special week, the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf take a backseat as the top 12 players from each team join forces to play collectively, emphasizing team spirit over individual performance.

While the world of professional golf has seen a surge in prize money, particularly with the creation of LIV in June 2022, Ryder Cup week presents a unique scenario.

Do players get paid in the Ryder Cup?

Players are not compensated for their participation in the Ryder Cup.

None of the 24 players competing in the Ryder Cup receive payment, not even the winning team members. The focus of this biennial event lies in making history, representing one’s nation or continent, and playing with unwavering pride rather than financial gain. However, players do receive travel expenses for promotional events and pre-tournament responsibilities, but there are no wages or win bonuses involved.

Nevertheless, the Ryder Cup provides global exposure to its participants, often leading to lucrative opportunities after the event. These opportunities range from sponsorship deals and paid appearances to writing books and taking on television roles.

Interestingly, the PGA of America allocates $200,000, which is given to the U.S. players to donate to charities of their choice. In 2021 at Whistling Straits, each player contributed $100,000 to a charity of their choosing. For instance, American player Daniel Berger donated $50,000 each to Mia’s Miracle Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

On the European side, Ryder Cup captains have been known to bestow gifts upon their team members. In 2018, winning captain Thomas Bjorn reportedly gifted a Rolex watch to each of his victorious team members. This tradition was initiated in 1983 by captain Tony Jacklin.

In the early days of the Ryder Cup, when it started in 1927, players did receive compensation, and British players had their travel, clothing, and equipment expenses subsidized.

As for the 2023 Ryder Cup, the prestigious event is scheduled to take place from September 29 to October 1 at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Italy.

Related: How does Ryder Cup scoring work? Format explained: Fourballs, foursomes and singles

Ryder Cup format

The format of the Ryder Cup involves Team Europe and Team USA competing over three days of match play. The first two days feature four sessions in total, comprising two sessions of four foursomes matches and two sessions of four fourballs matches.

On the third and final day, all 12 players on each side compete in 12 singles matches. The team that reaches a total of 14.5 points first emerges as the victorious Ryder Cup team.