For the first time in Ryder Cup history, U.S. players will receive compensation for their participation in the 2025 event at Bethpage Black. The PGA of America announced that each of the 12 players will earn a total of $500,000, which includes a $200,000 stipend and $300,000 earmarked for charity.  

This significant increase from the previous arrangement, which only allocated funds for charitable donations, reflects ongoing discussions about player compensation that date back to 1999. 

While the PGA stated that “no players asked to be compensated,” this decision acknowledges the contributions of past and present players to the Ryder Cup’s prestige and popularity: “The players and captains, past and present, are responsible for the Ryder Cup becoming the most special competition in golf and one of the most in-demand events on the international sports scene.”

The increase in charitable donations is particularly notable, as it marks the first adjustment since 1999 when players received $200,000 solely for charity. U.S. captain Keegan Bradley has committed to donating his stipend entirely to charity, which shows how philanthropic the event has always seemed. 

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among players; while some European golfers like Rory McIlroy expressed they would pay to participate in such a prestigious competition, others see merit in the U.S. approach to compensation. 

The Ryder Cup pits American and European golfers against each other every two years, traditionally without any prize money. However, with record prize purses available on tours today, this shift towards player compensation may set a precedent for future events. 

The PGA’s move to pay a stipend while increasing the money earmarked for charity is worth commending, especially while recognizing the efforts of golfers, present and past. There is no doubt that this might influence the decision of Team Europe to get paid stipends as well, even though that may not happen anytime soon.