To win the Ryder Cup, a team must accumulate more points than the opposing team by the end of the competition. The Ryder Cup is played over three days with 28 total matches that include different match play formats: foursomes (alternate shot), four-ball (best ball), and singles matches. The key points for winning the Ryder Cup are:
- Matches are scored by holes won, not total strokes. Each match is worth one point.
- There are 28 points up for grabs: 16 from team matches (foursomes and fourballs) over the first two days and 12 from singles matches on the final day.
- A team wins by reaching at least 14.5 points. If the match ends in a tie at 14-14, the team currently holding the Cup retains it.
- Strategy in pairing players for foursomes and fourballs is crucial, as is maximizing wins in singles matches.
- Players or teams win each hole in match play; winning more holes than the opponent wins the match point.
- Concessions can be made on holes, so a player can concede a hole or putt to the opponent to speed play.
- Winning early sessions strongly helps, but Sunday singles matches decide the final outcome.
Effectively, teams focus not just on individual skills but tactical pairings, managing momentum, and accumulating points across all match formats to secure a Ryder Cup win.