Major winner Justin Rose has made significant statements regarding the Ryder Cup. In 2023, during the event in Rome, he echoed Rory McIlroy's stance. McIlroy had previously said he would "pay to play" in the face of reports of American golfers receiving substantial sums. Rose, who has won Olympic gold in 2016 and been part of four Ryder Cup-winning sides, emphasized that for him, the Ryder Cup is not about financial rewards. "They are two of my top three moments in my career and none of them have been about the financial incentives," he stated during the Hong Kong Open, which begins Thursday.

The Ryder Cup - Where Passion Trumps Pay

Justin Rose's Olympic Gold and Ryder Cup Success

Rose's Olympic gold in 2016 stands as a remarkable achievement. It showcases his ability to perform on the grandest stage. Alongside this, his four Ryder Cup-winning sides highlight his crucial role in team competitions. These experiences have shaped his perspective on the Ryder Cup. "The Ryder Cup probably does underpin quite a lot of things on the European Tour and it's a great way of supporting the tour that gave us so much early in our careers," he explained. His success in both events demonstrates his talent and dedication.

The Importance of the Badge and Team Spirit

According to Rose, the "badge" holds great significance. It is what drives players to give their all in the Ryder Cup. "We play for the badge and we also play for the European Tour," he said. This sense of team spirit is what makes the Ryder Cup unique. It goes beyond individual achievements and focuses on the collective goal. Players like Rose understand that representing their team is more than just a game; it's a source of pride and motivation.

Understanding the Ryder Cup's Impact

The Ryder Cup is not just a golf tournament; it has a profound impact on the European Tour. As Rose mentioned, it underpins many aspects of the tour. It provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. For young players, it is a stepping stone to greater success. "If you're doing it with that lens then that's as great motivation as anything," he added. The Ryder Cup creates a sense of excitement and unity among golfers.Rose will be competing in the Hong Kong Open this week, where he will face a strong field including US Ryder Cup player Patrick Reed and South Korea's rising star Tom Kim. Despite the reports of large sums being offered on the US side, Rose remains focused on the values of the Ryder Cup. "I didn't quite get it. It's not four million dollars each," he said. His determination and love for the game shine through in his words and actions.