The Presidents Cup
The premier international team competition featuring the best golfers from the United States versus the rest of the world (excluding Europe). Learn about the tournament's rich history, format, and legendary moments.
About The Presidents Cup
The Ultimate International Competition
Every two years, the Presidents Cup features 12 of the top International Team golfers (from countries excluding Europe and the United States) going head-to-head against 12 of the best players from the United States in a four-day, match-play competition that transforms individual stars into passionate teammates.
Established in 1994 by the PGA Tour, the Presidents Cup was created to showcase the world's best golfers from regions beyond the United States and Europe. This biennial contest has become one of golf's premier team events, featuring players from Asia, Africa, South America, Canada, and Australia.
Tournament Format
Day 1 - Thursday
Morning: Foursomes
5 matches - Alternate shot format where partners take turns hitting the same ball
Afternoon: Four-Ball
5 matches - Best ball format where each player plays their own ball
Day 2 - Friday
Morning: Foursomes
5 matches - Same format as Thursday morning
Afternoon: Four-Ball
5 matches - Same format as Thursday afternoon
Day 3 - Saturday
Morning: Foursomes
4 matches - Alternate shot continues into the weekend
Afternoon: Four-Ball
4 matches - Final team session before singles
Day 4 - Sunday
Singles Matches
12 individual head-to-head matches that often determine the winner
Points needed to win
Legendary Moments
Historic Tie in South Africa (2003)
The only tie in Presidents Cup history. After regulation ended 17-17, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els battled in sudden death darkness before captains agreed to share the Cup.
International Team's Only Victory (1998)
The International Team's sole outright victory came at Royal Melbourne. Led by captain Peter Thomson, the team dominated with a 20.5-11.5 victory on home soil.
USA Dominance at Quail Hollow (2022)
Team USA delivered one of their most dominant performances, winning 17.5-12.5. Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, and the American squad showcased exceptional team play.
Tiger Woods' Legacy (1998-2019)
Tiger Woods holds the all-time record with 27 total points earned across 9 appearances. His 26-15-1 record made him the most successful player in Presidents Cup history.
Inaugural Tournament (1994)
The first Presidents Cup at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club saw Team USA defeat the International Team 20-12. Fred Couples led the American squad to victory as the inaugural champion.
Greg Norman's Captain Era (2011-2019)
The Great White Shark captained the International Team five times, bringing unprecedented passion and strategy. Though winless as captain, he elevated the competition's profile.
Trophy & Traditions
The Presidents Cup Trophy
The Presidents Cup trophy is a stunning crystal and silver piece that symbolizes international golf excellence. Standing approximately 30 inches tall, it features a globe design representing the international nature of the competition.
Commissioned by the PGA Tour in 1994, the trophy celebrates the global reach of golf and the spirit of competition between the United States and the rest of the world (excluding Europe).
Prize Money & Charity
All Players: Each team member receives $250,000 to donate to charities of their choice
Charitable Focus: Since its inception, the Presidents Cup has donated over $60 million to various charities worldwide, making it one of golf's most philanthropic events
Key Traditions
Opening Ceremony
A spectacular ceremony featuring both teams, national anthems, and the official handover of the trophy from the previous hosts.
Team Rooms
Separate team rooms where players strategize, bond, and prepare. These become the heart of team spirit throughout the week.
Singles Envelope
Captains must submit their Sunday singles lineup in a sealed envelope before Saturday play ends, adding strategic intrigue.
Victory Celebrations
Wild celebrations, champagne showers, and the ceremonial raising of the trophy mark the culmination of golf's most emotional event.
Latest Edition: 2024 Royal Montreal
Historic 10th Consecutive Victory
Team USA extended their dominance with a convincing 18.5-11.5 victory at Royal Montreal Golf Club, marking their tenth consecutive Presidents Cup triumph and 13th overall win in the competition's history.
The 7-point margin of victory set a new record for the largest winning margin by an away team in Presidents Cup history. Despite a spirited effort from Mike Weir's International squad on their home continent, the American team's depth and experience proved decisive.
Clinching Moment
Future Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley secured the winning point with a 1-up victory over Si Woo Kim in Sunday singles. The moment was particularly emotional for Bradley, who hadn't competed in a Presidents Cup since his previous appearance.
Next Presidents Cup: 2026
The 2026 Presidents Cup will be held at Medinah Country Club's Course #3 in Chicago, Illinois from September 22-27, 2026. Team USA captain Brandt Snedeker will face International Team captain Geoff Ogilvy in this historic event.
September 22-27, 2026
Mark your calendar
Medinah Country Club
Course #3, Chicago, Illinois
USA vs International
Snedeker vs Ogilvy