The Bridges Cup claims to provide an unparalleled, first-class experience. Yet, at the same time, it draws a clear resemblance to the prestigious Ryder Cup. Confused? Well, it’s understandable. If the Bridges Cup is designed after the Ryder Cup, offering a similar format and feel, how exactly does it stand apart?

Let’s break it down. Bridges Cup is an annual event presented by 8AM Golf and the CJ Corporation. Following its inaugural event in 2022, this tournament is all set to mark its grand return this year at Haesley Nine Bridges in South Korea from Oct. 14 to Oct. 16.

Coming back to its similarities with the Ryder Cup, the Bridges Cup follows a familiar format. Much like the Ryder Cup, the Bridges Cup follows a similar 12-on-12 team format, with Team America facing off against Team Europe. But here’s the twist: it’s designed specifically for mid-amateur golfers. Keep on reading to know about many such quirks of the event.

What is the format and selection process of the Bridges Cup?

According to the official Bridges Cup website, the players are selected from some of the most prestigious golf clubs worldwide. However, that’s not the only requirement—there’s also a specific qualifying criterion to participate in the tournament. Golfers who have won USGA events, competed in major championships and claimed victory in exclusive invitationals, have the chance to participate.

Once the participants are selected, they are divided into two teams of 12 players each. These players then receive a formal invitation from the Bridges Cup Championship Committee, which follows a rigorous selection process to ensure the highest standards.

Moving ahead with the uniqueness of this championship. It is a 72-hole match with 24 participants on board, competing over four exciting rounds. In the initial two rounds, four balls are in play for every hole as each player on a two-man team plays their own ball. And of course, as the universal golf implies, the team with the lowest score wins the round. In case there is a tie between the teams, the point is divided, with each team earning half a point.

Similar to the Ryder Cup, As the game proceeds to the next round, there comes a true test of teamwork. Now, the game is played in a foursome, with two players in each team. Each player takes alternate shots until the hole is complete. But what makes it different and adds a layer of challenge to this round is that after hitting the tee shots on each hole, the players take turns hitting the same ball, which requires more coordination in comparison to the first two individual rounds.

By the 4th round, the competition intensifies with Singles matches. Since this is the final round, two golfers are paired together for head-to-head play and the team with the lowest scores wins the title. But what is it that the teams are truly fighting for? The Team that wins the match is awarded the Jay Lee Championship Trophy.

With a history dating back to 1927, the Ryder Cup has solidified its place in the golf world, garnering millions of viewers. Meanwhile, the Bridges Cup is at its early stage walking in the footsteps of the iconic Ryder Cup. However, whether it will be able to establish an identity of its own shortly is something yet to be seen. So are you excited about the upcoming event? Let us know in the comments.