ROLEX and the Ryder Cup
Rolex is Worldwide Partner of The Ryder Cup, the 44th edition of which takes place from 29 September to 1 October 2023 in Italy. Created in 1927, The Ryder Cup is one of the most watched sporting events in the world. Every two years, this team tournament pits Europe against the United States of America. It is contested alternately on each continent. The competition sees today’s best golfers –experienced players and young talent – go head-to-head, each team led by former champions acting as non-playing captains.
The unique concept of The Ryder Cup – three days of competition, pairs and singles match-ups, no prize money – creates a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation that transcends the usual rivalries of the professional circuit. The first two days are devoted to matches between pairs. From fourball matches (each player plays his own ball and only the best score counts) to foursome matches (teammates take turns to play the same ball), the pairs formed in each team compete in match-play format, seeking to win each hole by completing it in the fewest number of strokes. At the end of each contest, the duo who wins the most holes wins the match and a point for their team. Sunday is devoted to 12 singles matches, still in match play format. The first team to accumulate more than 14 points wins the coveted Samuel Ryder Trophy. In the event of a tie, the trophy is retained by the defending champion.
With more than 200,000 spectators present over the three days of competition and millions of television viewers around the world, The Ryder Cup is an exceptional event in the world of golf.
It unites players and fans in the passionate support of a team, creating an ambience unlike any other in golf. The clamour of the crowd pushes players to give their all for the good of the collective. In this spirit, during the 2018 edition in France, Rolex Testimonee Francesco Molinari made competition history by winning all five of his matches, four doubles and the singles. Before him, no European player had achieved such a feat.
Golf is more than a sport. It embodies values that make it an experience unlike any other. Precision, integrity, humility and respect. These are values that are also deeply rooted in Rolex’s identity. It is for this reason that, for almost 60 years, Rolex has supported golf. This long-standing commitment was initiated in 1967 with legendary champion Arnold Palmer, who was joined by Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, known as The Big Three. It now extends to the leading institutions and events as well as the sport’s top players and younger talent.
