“Golf legend Tiger Woods has suggested that US Ryder Cup players should get $5m and donate to charity, with the upcoming Ryder Cup 2025 as an opportunity to support causes, including charity stores near me.”
Tiger Woods’ Proposal: $5M for Charity
Tiger Woods suggested that US Ryder Cup players should each receive $5 million to donate to charity, including local charity stores near their communities.
Ryder Cup History and Player Payments
Last month, reports confirmed that the 12 US players competing in the 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, New York, in 2025, will each earn $400,000.
In the Ryder Cup’s 97-year history, players have never been paid for representing their respective teams.
1999: Revisiting an Old Debate
Woods recalled a similar conversation in 1999:
“We didn’t want to get paid. We wanted to give more money to charity, but the media twisted it and made it seem like we wanted payment.”
Woods emphasized that the Ryder Cup generates significant revenue, advocating for more funds to be directed toward charitable causes.
“I hope the players get $5 million each and donate it all to charity. What’s wrong with that?”
Rory McIlroy’s Perspective on “Pay to Play”
Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy expressed his willingness to “pay to play” for Europe in the Ryder Cup.
When asked about European attitudes, Woods replied:
“If the Europeans want to pay to be in the Ryder Cup, that’s their choice.
The Ryder Cup on European soil subsidizes most of their tour, so it’s a big event for them.”
Woods’ Recovery Journey and Competitive Drive
Injuries and Setbacks
Woods, a 15-time major champion, has not competed since The Open in July, where he failed to make the cut.
Woods has faced persistent injuries over the past few years, including back issues that have spread to his legs.
In September, he underwent his sixth back surgery to alleviate pain.
Hope for a Return to Form
Despite challenges, Woods remains determined:
“The fire still burns to compete,” he said.
However, he acknowledged the physical toll: “The recovery of the body to do it is not what it used to be.”
Speaking at the Hero World Challenge, Woods expressed optimism:
“I’m getting stronger, but I’ve got a long way to go to compete against these guys.”
