To win the Ryder Cup, a team needs to earn at least 14.5 points out of a total of 28 points available in the competition. The Ryder Cup features 28 matches, each worth one point, and the first team to surpass 14 points wins the Cup. If the defending champion ties with 14 points, they retain the Cup. Therefore, getting 14.5 points guarantees an outright win of the Ryder Cup.
In summary:
- Total points available: 28
- Points needed to win the Ryder Cup: 14.5
- Points needed for the defending champion to retain the Cup: 14.