The year might seem ending but the controversies around the Ryder Cup paycheck are still on! Ryder Cup is considered one of the most prominent events and a dream of every professional golfer. Starting in 1927, it has undergone many controversies and critiques but the 2025 edition looks all marinated and intense. Do you remember how all of it started though?

Well, the fire around the controversy ignited when Patrick Cantlay refused to wear the Team USA cap, protesting against the tournament’s no-payment policy. The golfer received a lot of hate from the community calling him disloyal, anti-nationalist, and whatnot. But it appears that the 32-year-old’s year-long protest has paid off!

On December 16, the PGA of America announced that each US Ryder Cup participant in 2025 will receive a $200,000 stipend plus a $300,000 charitable commitment. Reflecting on this massive upgrade, a golf enthusiast took it to X, asking why “if no player asked to be compensated,” the PGA would suddenly decide to pay them. This decision appears “obnoxious” to the enthusiast, who believes the emphasis should be on boosting charity donations rather than compensating the participants.

The fan also asked if, “there is something we are missing?” hinting that they are unsure of the reasons behind the PGA’s decision. Tiger Woods, a 15-time PGA Tour winner stated something similar as well. “I just think that the event is so big, I think that we can give so much money to different charities, and I’ve said that since ’99 when we had the Brookline negotiations,” said the GOAT of golf, suggesting he is more focused on the charitable aspect of the tournament.

Interestingly, another commentator responded to the same post, adding, “Cantlay may even perform a pass the hat like they did for Ouimet’s caddie in the movie!!!! Prices for tickets are also outrageous.” Now, you might be wondering why Ouimet’s caddie. Well, the X user referred to the classic golf movie ‘The Greatest Game Ever Played’ where Ouimet’s caddie, Eddie Lowery, passes around a hat to collect money from the audience for his caddie fees.

The fan slyly suggested how Patrick Cantlay might do something similar. Perhaps Cantlay could pass around a hat to raise donations or make a statement about the compensation of golfers. Additionally, the user also mentioned the exorbitant ticket costs of the Ryder Cup which is adding more spice to this controversy.

“Prices tickets absurd too,” the fan added frustrated by the decision. Surprisingly, it’s not just the fans. Golf stars are speaking up on this update.

Par for the course? Golf professionals debate Ryder Cup compensation

The Ryder Cup update has not only gotten fans but has also prompted golfing stars to speak out. Take Scottie Scheffler for instance, during the Hero World Challenge press conference the winner said, “I think every one of our players would pay to play in the Ryder Cup if that’s what was asked of us,” highlighting the sense of pride and privilege that comes with participating in the Ryder Cup.

On the other hand, LIV Golf member, Anthony Kim also voiced her opinion, “I don’t want to be critical of my colleagues, but if they want to be financially rewarded, they have an absolute right to it.”

Such a comment from Kim, who has been out of the golf scene for years, has again added importance to this inflaming issue. Thus, we hope the conundrum will be resolved soon.

What do you think by the way? Has the PGA of America made the right decision? If not, then what’s wrong? Let us know in the comments section below!