Rolex and The Ryder Cup
October 2, 2023
Rolex is Worldwide Partner of The Ryder Cup, the 44th edition of which takes place from 29 September to 1 October 2023 in Italy.
In the world of horology, where precision and craftsmanship reign supreme, a unique
alliance between sport and watchmaking transcends the intricate gears and exquisite
dials of fine watches. As its Worldwide Partner, the iconic Swiss watchmaker Rolex has
joined forces with The Ryder Cup, the pinnacle of team golf. The partnership between
Rolex and the Ryder Cup adds a touch of lasting refinement to an event steeped in
tradition and passion.
Named after English businessman Samuel Ryder, the tournament began in 1927. Ryder donated the famous trophy, which still bears his name today. It started as a competition between the USA and Great Britain but evolved into the USA vs. Europe format in 1979 to create a more balanced and even more interesting rivalry. The Ryder Cup stands as a hallmark of golfing excellence, eliciting national pride among players and fans alike.
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. 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.
Named after English businessman Samuel Ryder, the tournament began in 1927. Ryder donated the famous trophy, which still bears his name today. It started as a competition between the USA and Great Britain but evolved into the USA vs. Europe format in 1979 to create a more balanced and even more interesting rivalry. The Ryder Cup stands as a hallmark of golfing excellence, eliciting national pride among players and fans alike.
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. 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 Ryder Cup reflects outstanding qualities: selflessness, solidarity, and faith in the
team. The matches, sometimes fierce, unfold with utmost respect between opponents.
These encounters are also privileged moments of transmission between accomplished
champions and younger elite golfers. Accompanying the European team since 1995, Rolex has also been Worldwide Partner
of The Ryder Cup since 2021.
THE FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
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.
The Buzz Of The Cup
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.
THE FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
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.
The Buzz Of The Cup
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.
ROLEX AND GOLD: A FOUNDATION OF SHARED VALUES
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.
Unforgettable moments, like the "Miracle at Medinah" in 2012, when Europe came from behind to win, or the "War on the Shore" in 1991, when the U.S. won its first victory after eight years of frustration, The Ryder Cup is known for its fierce competition. The atmosphere is electric, and players often cite the energy from the crowd as a factor in their performance. Each team dons distinctive uniforms, and the fashion on display is noteworthy. While secondary to the actual game, the detail in team attire reflects the importance of aesthetics in sports.
Rolex's enduring commitment to golf, from legends like Arnold Palmer to contemporary icons, underscores its dedication to a sport that embodies precision and values deeply ingrained in its heritage. As Rolex and The Ryder Cup converge, it's a partnership that celebrates the pursuit of excellence and the enduring spirit of human achievement on and off the golf course.
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.
Unforgettable moments, like the "Miracle at Medinah" in 2012, when Europe came from behind to win, or the "War on the Shore" in 1991, when the U.S. won its first victory after eight years of frustration, The Ryder Cup is known for its fierce competition. The atmosphere is electric, and players often cite the energy from the crowd as a factor in their performance. Each team dons distinctive uniforms, and the fashion on display is noteworthy. While secondary to the actual game, the detail in team attire reflects the importance of aesthetics in sports.
Rolex's enduring commitment to golf, from legends like Arnold Palmer to contemporary icons, underscores its dedication to a sport that embodies precision and values deeply ingrained in its heritage. As Rolex and The Ryder Cup converge, it's a partnership that celebrates the pursuit of excellence and the enduring spirit of human achievement on and off the golf course.
