PGA Paying U.S. Ryder Cup Players $500,000

The PGA of America is paying each of the 12 U.S. Ryder Cup players $500,000 for the 2025 matches — $300,000 designated for charity and $200,000 as a personal stipend — the first time American players will receive appearance fees. Captain Keegan Bradley has defended the change, said the PGA asked him to shepherd it into 2025, and confirmed he will donate his full $500,000. Several U.S. stars, including Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay, have said they plan to give their stipends to charity, though players emphasize the choice is personal. Europe and the DP World Tour will not receive payments, a disparity that has sharpened a transatlantic debate about money, motivation and the spirit of the Cup. Critics warn the stipends risk poor optics and commercialization, while supporters say revenue sharing reflects the event’s financial growth and should increase philanthropic impact. As play begins at Bethpage Black, organizers and players face scrutiny over whether the change will alter perceptions of patriotism and the competition’s character or simply expand its charitable reach.