The Ryder Cup is a golf trophy which is awarded biennially in an event called the "Ryder Cup Matches" between teams from Europe and the United States, and donated by Samuel Ryder. The Matches are jointly administered by the PGA of America and the PGA European Tour. The competition began following an exhibition match in 1926 of a team representing American professionals against a similar one representing the British PGA on the East Course, Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, UK, with the first competition taking place in 1927. After the Second World War, repeated US dominance led to a decision to extend the representation of the British & Irish team to Europe in 1979, and this change was partly prompted by the success of a new generation of Spanish golfers of the time including Severiano Ballesteros.

He and Antonio Garrido were the first Spaniards to play in the event in 1979. Europe has also been represented since then by players from Denmark, France, Germany, Italy and Sweden. The event has enjoyed more competitive matches as a result of this change, with Europe winning seven times and retaining the cup once, compared to six American wins. The 1999 Ryder Cup held at The Country Club in Brookline, Mass, caused great controversy. A remarkable comeback by the American team helped propel the U.S. to a 14.5-13.5 victory after trailing 10-6 heading into the final day. The U.S. went 8-3-1 in singles matches to seal the first American victory since 1993.