Ryder Cup 2025: Scottie Scheffler, Team USA to Donate Winnings to Charity

The United States Ryder Cup team will receive compensation for the first time in 2025. Each of the 12 players and captain Keegan Bradley are set to receive a $500,000 stipend for participating. The historic move was announced by the PGA of America ahead of the biennial event.

This decision follows past controversies over player pay. It immediately prompted a generous response from the team’s biggest stars.

Scheffler Leads Philanthropic Charge

World number one Scottie Scheffler will donate his entire stipend to charity. He confirmed the decision in a statement to ESPN. Scheffler emphasized that his charitable giving is not typically for public recognition.

The PGA of America structured the payment to encourage philanthropy. It gave each team member control over $300,000 to direct to a charity of their choice. The remaining $200,000 is a personal stipend for the players to use as they see fit.

Scheffler plans to donate the full amount. He called the PGA’s initiative a “really cool thing.” This act sets a powerful tone for the team’s spirit.

Past Controversy Informs Present Generosity

Patrick Cantlay is also donating his full stipend. The world number 22 was at the center of a pay controversy during the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. Reports from outlets like the BBC indicated he refused to wear a team hat as a protest against the lack of player compensation.

Cantlay has now put that chapter behind him. He told ESPN that the noise surrounding the event would not distract the team. His decision to donate the money aligns with a new, unified team approach.

If all team members follow suit, the total charitable contribution could reach $6.5 million. This represents a significant increase from the previous charitable commitment of $200,000 made in 1999.

This collective decision highlights a significant shift in the Ryder Cup’s culture. The Ryder Cup stipend has become a catalyst for substantial philanthropy. It transforms a financial policy into a force for good.

Info at your fingertips

How much are players getting for the 2025 Ryder Cup?

Each player on the U.S. team will receive a $500,000 stipend. This is the first time American players are being paid for the event.

What was the Patrick Cantlay hat controversy?

In 2023, reports suggested Cantlay refused to wear his team cap. This was seen as a protest because players were not financially compensated for their participation.

Can players keep the entire $500,000 stipend?

Yes, the PGA of America has given players full discretion. However, $300,000 of it is specifically earmarked for them to direct to a chosen charity.

What is the total potential charitable donation?

If all 12 players and Captain Keegan Bradley donate their full $300,000 charitable portion, the total would be $3.9 million. Donating the entire stipend would amount to $6.5 million.

When was the last time Ryder Cup charitable contributions increased?

According to the BBC, the $300,000 charitable portion is the first increase since 1999. The previous commitment was $200,000.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, BBC