After it was confirmed that US golfers will be financially rewarded for their participation in the Ryder Cup this year, reactions from important figures in the world of golf immediately began. Is it fair that one party gets paid and the other doesn't?
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European golfers did not want to talk about it, but most of them emphasized that money was never a motive when it comes to such a prestigious competition.
Some have gone so far, like McIlroy, saying that they are even willing to pay to play in such a competition.
The captain of the European teams, Luke Donald, revealed that he had conversations with the golfers, wanting to know if it is frustrating for them that the US golfers are paid, while they are not.
We heard the rumours and it was only right of me to talk to the guys from Rome and gauge their feelings, he said, as quoted by Telegraph.
I certainly wasnt putting words in their mouth. I said, how would you feel if the US were paid? And they told me that, the weeks not really about that its more than that.
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Luke Donald believes that the Ryder Cup is a competition where you can benefit in various ways. It is an opportunity for many to promote themselves, show their qualities and acquire sponsorship contracts.
The European captain is not sure how much the PGA of America's financial injection for US golfers will affect the clash in September this year, but nothing can change his desire and determination to succeed.
You know, we all benefit financially if you are in a Ryder Cup, Donald said.
Your brand elevates because its watched by so many people; you can make a career for yourself if you play in a good Ryder Cup. We see it that way. I dont think anything has really changed. But will the anomaly not affect the chemistry of the encounter? Hard to tell, Donald replies. Well approach that when we get there.
