PGA of America Pays U.S. Ryder Cup Players $500K

At the start of Ryder Cup week at Bethpage Black, the PGA of America defended its decision to pay each U.S. player $500,000—$300,000 earmarked for charity and $200,000 as a personal stipend—which captain Keegan Bradley said modernizes the event and increases charitable dollars; Bradley has pledged to donate his own stipend. Europe captain Luke Donald said his 12 players unanimously rejected payment and warned New York fans, who may pay up to about $750 per ticket, could turn on paid U.S. players if results falter. Bradley and Donald struck a friendly tone in joint media appearances despite the pay debate dominating the build-up. The move has drawn criticism from some former players and commentators as poor optics or “greedy,” while others note top U.S. players’ substantial Tour earnings and emphasize the charitable benefits. Bradley said the choice of how to use the stipend is personal and that he is focused on his team’s actions and the good the funds can do.