McIlroy, Lowry Oppose Ryder Cup Payments

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry have expressed opposition to paying U.S. Ryder Cup team members, arguing it could undermine the event's purity. While the PGA of America plans to pay U.S. players $400,000 each for the 2025 Ryder Cup, McIlroy insists he would pay for the privilege to compete, emphasizing that the Ryder Cup, like the Olympics, is one of the purest forms of competition. Both McIlroy and Lowry believe that the Ryder Cup's value lies beyond financial compensation, with McIlroy suggesting the money would better serve the DP World Tour. Despite understanding the financial argument, McIlroy warns that payments could alter the camaraderie and tradition of the European team. European players have discussed the issue with their captain, Luke Donald, and agree that team unity should be prioritized over financial gain. This debate follows previous controversies at the 2023 Ryder Cup when U.S. player Patrick Cantlay was rumored to protest over payment issues.