[Sligo33]

What if the American players were paid according to their performance and not just for showing up...I wonder if that would make a difference. I think its fair for some compensation...they are professionals making a living...without the players there is no event. Where does all the money go from TV coverage etc for the Ryder Cup? Some should go back to the players on both sides. Do baseball players get paid for their All-Star event or football player in the Pro Bowl event?...I think they do

Back in the early 70's, there was much talk within the PGA of America as to whether the membership should continue to support the Ryder Cup. The US had dominated the Great Britain and Ireland (GB & I), for decades. Interest in the event had wained and was being heavily subsidised by the PGA, not the PGA Tour. The matches had the appeal of US Mid Ametuer. No offense to the USGA, but I challenge you to find ten people, at your course, who can name last years champion.

A desicion was made to add the the continental Europe to the GB & I side. This decision was likey made to get a dynamic young Spaniard into the Ryder Cup. It was not until Europe started winning the Ryder Cup that the event became the event that it is today.

The players are independent contractors and can play in the Ryder Cup or not. It is obviously to there benefit to play (i.e. endorsement ad other revenues). The players and thier families incur zero expense (travel, food, lodging, etc.) to play in this event and live quite well, on the PGA's nickel.

The money raised from the Ryder Cup goes to growing the game of golf. The PGA of America. You can go to pga.com to see some of the work this non-profit organization does.

If the players do not want to play for thier country or give back to the game that has given them so much, than there are more than enough out there that are willing to take thier place. If such players do not exist then I am afraid our game is headed for the same scandal ridden behaviour that has plagued the other aforementioned sports.