European captain Luke Donald has been vocal in his opposition to the US decision to pay their players for the first time in the history of the Ryder Cup
Team Europe captain Luke Donald poked fun at the USA during his speech at the opening ceremony of the Ryder Cup, stating that the tournament “isn’t about prize money”—just as the hosts have introduced payments for players.
The opening ceremony was brought forward by 24 hours due to concerns over adverse weather conditions. Donald, who is captaining Europe for the second time in a row, once again alluded to the payment dispute that has cast a shadow over preparations for the 2025 tournament.
While European golfers continue to go unpaid, their American counterparts will receive compensation for the first time. This follows the controversy two years ago when Patrick Cantlay chose not to wear his cap in a silent protest against the lack of remuneration.
Donald was the first to speak and said: “To lead these men, is one of the greatest privileges of my life. Not just individual players, from nine nations, but one team. Defined by unity, playing for something greater than ourselves.
He continued: “It means so much to us, and it’s unlike anything else in this sport, it’s not about prize money or world ranking points. It’s about pride. Representing your flag, shirt and the legacy you leave behind.”
Keegan Bradley and his team of 12 will each receive £370,000 – a significant portion of which must be donated to charitable causes. The American captain has argued that the break with tradition at Bethpage Black in New York will bring the tournament into “today’s age.”
Donald has recently disclosed that he held talks with his players about whether they wished to receive payment, similar to their American counterparts.
He expressed enormous pride in their choice to compete without compensation, believing the experience would be more valuable than any financial reward.
“This isn’t a week to get paid,” Donald declared on Monday. “We have such strong purpose in this team, in what we play for, and to be honest we reinvest some of that money back into the experience of these guys.
“I feel like, if you have those experiences that you remember for the rest of your life, that’s worth more than a couple hundred thousand dollars in the back of your pocket.”
Donald is determined to achieve the first away triumph in the Ryder Cup since 2012, with the Miracle at Medinah permanently etched in sporting folklore, reports the Express.
Playing at home has provided a considerable advantage, and the captain is acutely aware of the challenge that awaits in front of a passionate crowd.
“We know what awaits us, Bethpage is not shy, loyal and ferociously loud, rightly so,” he said. “You respect effort over ego, those who fight, grind and rise to the big occasions. You make us earn every cheer. We may not be your team, but we’ll give you something to respect, admire and maybe something to cheer for.”
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