Do Ryder Cup Caddies Get Paid? All About Payout & Traditions Explored

Since its inception, golf has earned its reputation as the true gentleman’s sport, with players competing with sportsmanship and respect. Among all competitions, the Ryder Cup stands out as one of the most prestigious, having started 98 years ago to formalize the friendship between golfers from the United States and Great Britain. From those early beginnings, the tournament has grown into the premier showdown between American and European players.

Over time, Ireland joined the fray, and eventually, the entire continental Europe became part of this iconic event. As the Ryder Cup grew, it required a skilled support team to ensure its success—just like the operational crews that run every major tournament. Among the most crucial members, caddies guide players on the course, provide strategic insight, and offer steady support that can tip the balance between victory and defeat. Naturally, this raises the question: do these caddies get paid, and if so, how much?

Understanding Ryder Cup Caddie Compensation Basics

The Ryder Cup celebrates pride, sportsmanship, and national honor. English businessman and golf enthusiast Samuel Ryder envisioned a competition where players would compete for their flag and legacy rather than for money. For nearly a century, professionals competed in the Ryder Cup without receiving any prize money, keeping the focus on honor and tradition. The 2025 edition, however, marked a historic shift.

After 98 years, the PGA of America broke with tradition and announced that each of the 12 U.S. team members would receive $500,000 for participating. Players must donate $300,000 to charity, while they can use the remaining $200,000 personally. This change gave American golfers direct compensation for their Ryder Cup performance for the first time. Previously, the PGA allocated only $200,000 per player for charitable donations in the player’s name.