The Ryder Cup
About The Ryder Cup
A great sporting event
The Ryder Cup has become one of the world’s greatest sporting events. Every two years, 24 of the best players from Europe and the United States go head-to-head in match play competition.
Drama, tension, incredible golf, camaraderie and sportsmanship are served in equal measure, captivating an audience of millions around the world. It’s an event that transcends sport, yet remains true to the spirit of its founder, Samuel Ryder.
The PGA's involvement
The PGA is a partner in Ryder Cup Europe LLP alongside the European Tour and plays a key role in each Ryder Cup played on European soil.
This enduring association is cemented further by The PGA's status as the trustee of the famous Ryder Cup trophy itself, donated by Sam Ryder to mark the biennial contest between Great Britain & Ireland and the United States' finest players.
One of The PGA's most famous members, Abe Mitchell, is the gilded figure depicted on the top of the 17 inch high trophy. Mitchell takes pride of place as a result of his friendship and patronage by Samuel Ryder who from 1925 appointed him as his personal golf instructor.
Further information on the history of the Ryder Cup and the work of the Ryder Cup Trust, of which The PGA is a partner, can be found by visiting rydercup.com and rctrust.info
PGA Professionals
PGA Professionals have continued to play a significant role in the Ryder Cup, both behind the scenes and within Ryder Cup teams.
For the Celtic Manor event in 2010, the role of the PGA Professional in preparing each team member was recognised by the Captain, Colin Montgomerie and highlighted in a prominent campaign that recognised the importance of the PGA Professional as a coach in helping the players to prepare for an event such as the Ryder Cup.
“Coaching at a Ryder Cup is very different to coaching at a Major,” said PGA Professional Denis Pugh. “It’s a special atmosphere. I’m always proud to represent my association whatever the format."
PGA Professionals have also continued to play an important part in front of the cameras on successful Ryder Cup teams. Ian Poulter and Paul Lawrie, both fully qualified PGA Members, notably performed under pressure to help Europe to victory in the 'Miracle at Medinah' in 2012.
The Ryder Cup - A brief history
The Ryder Cup is one of the most spirited, exciting and compelling events in sports. It spans nearly 90 years, involves the greatest players in the world and produces some of the greatest moments in the game. The competition officially began in 1927 when enterprising English seed merchant Samuel Ryder presented a gold cup that bears his name. The U.S. team defeated Great Britain, 9 ½ to 2 ½, in the inaugural matches in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Since then, the Ryder Cup has expanded to involve the finest players of Europe. Except for a span (1939-45) during World War II and following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks upon America, the Ryder Cup has been held biennially with the U.S. and Europe alternating as host.The 2020 Ryder Cup will be held at the historic Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin—the site of the 2007 U.S. Senior Open and the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships.
USA win first match
The United States, captained by Walter Hagen, win the inaugural Ryder Cup played at Worcester Country Club, Worcester, Massachusetts.
First GB victory
George Duncan leads Great Britain to their first Ryder Cup victory at Moortown Golf Club, Leeds.
New points system
A new points system is introduced as Dai Rees leads captains Great Britain to their third Ryder Cup victory.
First three day event
America dominate first Ryder Cup match to be played over three days at East Lake Golf Club, Atlanta, Georgia.
Team Europe
The first match to allow European players ends in defeat for the visitors to White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.
Europe win in USA
Tony Jacklin captains Europe to their first ever Ryder Cup victory in America at Muirfield Village Golf Club, Ohio.
War by the shore
America win one of the most heated Ryder Cup clashes by just one point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina.
Spain is new host
Seve Ballesteros captains Europe to victory as the Ryder Cup is contested in continental Europe for the first time.
Europe's biggest win
Bernhard Langer Langer leads Europe to a 18½ - 9½ victory at Oakland Hills Golf Club, Michigan. Their biggest Ryder Cup win.
Miracle at Medinah
Ian Poulter inspired Europe to one of the most spectacular Ryder Cup comebacks at Medinah Country Club, Illinois.
Moliwood mania
Francesco Molinari and Tommy Fleetwood lead Europe's rout as they beat America 17½ - 10½ at Le Golf National, France.
Youngest team in it’s history
The United States, regained the Ryder Cup in 2021 with a record 19–9 victory. This was the largest margin of victory in a Ryder Cup since 1967.
Europe claim Ryder Cup glory in Italy
Europe have defeated the United States 16½-11½ to regain the Ryder Cup and ensure their unbeaten run on home soil will continue to 34 years.
Discover the Ryder Cup
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The Ryder Cup
Every two years, 24 of the best players from Europe and the United States go head-to-head in match play competition.
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Ryder Cup European Development Trust
The Ryder Cup European Development Trust (RCEDT) was set up in 2004 to support golf at grass roots level throughout Europe.
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