About the Ryder Cup - Golf's most prestigious tournament!

The Ryder Cup

The Ryder Cup is a golf trophy which is awarded biennially in an event called the "Ryder Cup Matches" between teams from Europe and the United States. The Matches are jointly administered by the PGA of America and the PGA European Tour.

The competition began following an exhibition match in 1926 of a team representing American professionals against a similar one representing the British PGA on the East Course, Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, UK, with the first competition taking place in 1927.

Early matches between the two sides were fairly even, but after the Second World War, repeated US dominance led to a decision to extend the representation of the British & Irish team to Europe in 1979. This change was partly prompted by the success of a new generation of Spanish golfers of the time including Severiano Ballesteros. He and Antonio Garrido were the first Spaniards to play in the event in 1979. Europe has also been represented since then by players from Denmark, France, Germany, Italy and Sweden.

As a result of this change the event has enjoyed more competitive matches, with Europe winning seven times and retaining the cup once, compared to six American wins.

The Celtic Manor Resort - Venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup

In 2010 the Ryder Cup will be held at the prestigious Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, Wales.

Congratulations to the USA for winning the 37th Ryder Cup at Valhalla, Kentucky! We look forward to welcoming the USA to Wales in 2010 to defend the cup.

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