Staggering Ryder Cup Sum Rory McIlroy Could Have Made by Changing Sides

Rory McIlroy would have been owed a huge amount of money if he was playing for money at the Ryder Cup.

Five-time major winner McIlroy makes an eighth consecutive appearance for Team Europe as Luke Donald's side are looking to retain the trophy following their victory in 2023.

One of the main talking points ahead of proceedings getting underway at Bethpage Black is the fact that USA are getting paid for the first time in the tournament's storied 98-year history.

All 12 of the American golfers - plus captain Keegan Bradley - are being given $500,000 (£370,000), with $300,000 (£220,000) of that fee going to a charity of their choice.

The Europeans, on the other hand, are not paid to play.

Explaining the decision to be paid, Bradley said: "I was tasked with a job the PGA of America asked me to do, and this was what we decided. We wanted to bring the Ryder Cup into today’s age, and we felt like this was the best way to do it.

"We did the best we could, and I think a lot of good is going to come from this money and I think it’s great."

All 12 American golfers and captain Keegan Bradley will be paid for the 2025 Ryder Cup. Image: Getty

Europe’s players and captain have continued to seek no payment for competing in the Ryder Cup.

European captain Donald ramped up the intensity as he aimed a dig at their American rivals when he said his team are 'fuelled by something money can't buy'.

During Wednesday's opening ceremony, he said: "[The Ryder Cup] is not about prize money or ranking points. It’s about pride, it's about representing your flag, your shirt and the legacy you leave behind.

"We are fuelled by something money can’t buy - purpose, brotherhood and a responsibility to honour those who came before us, while inspiring those whose time is yet to come."

Rory McIlroy during a practice round ahead of the 2025 Ryder Cup. Image: Getty

According to analysts at Fruity King, His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) would have to pay McIlroy £8,812.64 if he was playing for money at the Ryder Cup.

If the Northern Irishman were to switch teams, however, he would earn £371,701.61 based on the current exchange rate, with £223,020.97 to be donated to charity - and £148,680.65 to then be assessed as taxable income.

But if the 36-year-old were to claim back the tax rebate that he would be due for his charitable donation, HMRC would ultimately pay him an additional £8,812.64, leaving him with £160,281.05 to add to his considerable earnings for 2025.