The Ryder Cup prices were recently announced, and golf fans everywhere were shocked by the steep costs. The volunteer price opened up at nearly $400, much higher than previous team events in the country and even the PGA Championship at Bethpage Black in 2019. For those looking to attend, an individual day ticket for next year’s tournament on Long Island costs a whopping $750.
The prices have sparked backlash from prominent members of the golf media, including Barstool’s “Fore Play” podcast and former member Dan Rapaport. However, the PGA of America defends the pricing, comparing the event to a Tier 1 event like the World Series or NBA Finals Game 7.
“We view ourselves as a Tier 1 event that’s on par with a World Series or with an NBA Finals Game 7,” said Bryan Karns, PGA of America Championship director. “The demand is at an all-time high for this event, and so we wanted to make sure we priced it appropriately.”
The price is more than double what it was for the 2021 tournament, where a day-pass was $350. Despite the high cost, the Ryder Cup remains a premiere event in the golf world. European golfer Rory McIlroy even called it “the best” event in golf.
Europe has not won a Ryder Cup on U.S. soil since the Miracle at Medinah in 2012. The upcoming tournament on Long Island is sure to be a spectacle, but with ticket prices soaring, fans will have to decide if the experience is worth the hefty price tag.
