The Ryder Cup, one of golf's most prestigious and anticipated events, has long been a financial boon for the PGA of America. Former PGA president Ted Bishop, who was involved in the selection of Bethpage Black as the next Ryder Cup venue, sheds light on the competition's significant impact on the association's bottom line. From the staggering ticket prices to the revenue streams it generates, the Ryder Cup has become a crucial engine for the PGA's operations and its support for golf professionals across the country.

Securing the Ryder Cup: A Coveted Opportunity

The decision to host the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black was a strategic move by the PGA of America, recognizing the event's immense drawing power. As Bishop explains, the Ryder Cup was the "crown jewel" in the association's plans, with the potential to generate substantial revenue. The competition's rarity in the United States, occurring once every four years, only adds to the allure and exclusivity of the tickets, which can fetch as much as $750 per person.Bishop defends the high ticket prices, noting that they are in line with the market for major sporting events. He cites the example of World Series tickets in New York, which can cost over $1,100 for upper-deck seats. The Ryder Cup, he argues, is one of the most coveted tickets in golf, second only to the prestigious Masters Tournament. This premium pricing reflects the event's unique status and the demand from golf enthusiasts to witness the intense rivalry between the United States and Europe.

The Ryder Cup's Financial Significance

The Ryder Cup's financial impact on the PGA of America is substantial. Bishop reveals that a decade ago, the association would typically net around $10 million from an international Ryder Cup and $25 million from a domestic event, excluding television rights fees. This revenue was then allocated over a four-year period, contributing an average of $8.75 million annually to the PGA's overall budget of $156 million.This significant influx of funds plays a crucial role in supporting the PGA's operations and its commitment to golf professionals across the country. Each of the 41 PGA chapters receives an annual payment, which was increased from $90,000 to $180,000 during Bishop's tenure, along with a percentage increase. This ensures that the Ryder Cup's financial benefits are distributed to the broader PGA community.

Sharing the Wealth: The PGA Tour's Cut

While the PGA of America professionals do not receive direct compensation from the Ryder Cup, the PGA Tour has a stake in the event's revenue. Bishop reveals that the Tour receives 20% of the PGA of America's Ryder Cup television rights fees, amounting to approximately $88 million over the length of the current 15-year, $440 million television deal.This revenue stream, according to Bishop, is used by the PGA Tour for player compensation and the retirement plan, benefiting the Tour's entire ecosystem. He acknowledges that the players may not have fully understood the financial arrangement at the time, but the Tour's commissioner, Tim Finchem, effectively communicated the rationale behind this revenue-sharing model.

The Ryder Cup's Enduring Legacy

The Ryder Cup's significance extends beyond its immediate financial impact on the PGA of America. As a premier global golf event, it serves as a powerful platform to promote the sport, attract new fans, and inspire the next generation of golfers. The competition's ability to captivate audiences and generate widespread media attention further enhances the PGA's brand and visibility, contributing to the long-term growth and sustainability of the association.The Ryder Cup's financial prowess, coupled with its ability to engage and inspire the golfing community, solidifies its status as a cornerstone of the PGA's operations. As the association continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the sport, the Ryder Cup's lucrative legacy will undoubtedly remain a crucial component of its success and its commitment to supporting golf professionals across the United States.