The Ryder Cup pits the best American golfers against their European counterparts in a team-based competition. The biennial tournament began in 1927 between America and Great Britain. Americans enjoyed a majority of early success in the competition, losing only once between 1933-1985. As a result of American domination, the Ryder Cup was expanded in 1979 to include all of continental Europe on one team. Since the switch, the competition has become much more competitive with Europe winning 10 Ryder Cups since 1979. Overall, the Americans have lifted the Cup 26 times, while British or European teams have managed a combined 13 wins, with the sides sharing 2 ties. While the selection format has changed over the years, those chosen to compete for team America represent the best American golfers. The following list compiles the American golfers with the most Ryder Cup experience.
1. Phil Mickelson - 11 Ryder Cups
All photos courtesy of the PGA Tour
World Golf Hall of Fame member Phil Mickelson is a golfing legend, winning 5 majors over his long career. Mickelson has a record 11 Ryder Cup appearances from 1995-2016. He has won the Ryder Cup 3 times.
2. Jim Furyk - 9 Ryder Cups
Holding the record of lowest score in PGA Tour history, Furyk used his talent in 9 Ryder Cups from 1997-2014, winning the Cup 2 times.
3. Tiger Woods - 8 Ryder Cups
One of the greatest players of all time, Tiger Woods' 8 Ryder Cups include captaining the team in 2018 and a 7 straight appearances from 1997-2012. While Woods' 82 PGA Tour wins make him the joint most successful individual golfer of all time, he has only 1 Ryder Cup to his name.
4. Billy Casper - 8 Ryder Cups
Billy Casper was a professional golfer who represented the United States in 8 Ryder Cups from 1961-1975, captaining the team once. Casper holds the record for most Ryder Cup Points won over a career by an American.
5. Lanny Wadkins - 8 Ryder Cups
Lanny Wadkins competed in 8 Ryder Cups from 1977-1993, winning 4 times. Wadkins served as captain for the 1995 American team and has served as a golf analyst since retiring.
6. Raymond Floyd - 8 Ryder Cups
The winner of 4 majors, Raymond Floyd also played for team America in 8 Ryder Cups from 1969-1993. Captaining the side in 1989, Floyd won the Ryder Cup 7 times as a player.
Other Notable American Ryder Cup Golfers
The following American golfers have competed in 7 Ryder Cups.
Tom Kite (1979-1993)
Gene Littler (1961-1975)
Sam Snead (1937-1959)