Patrick Cantlay has one ‘really simple’ thought about the Ryder Cup now after learning USA players could be paid

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The golfing world has been anticipating Patrick Cantlay’s reaction to the news that USA players will be paid at the 2025 Ryder Cup.

Cantlay’s refusal to wear a hat at the 2023 Ryder Cup sparked much speculation. The 32-year-old was reportedly unhappy about the lack of compensation given to the players.

Now, with USA players set to receive $400,000 each at Bethpage, Cantlay’s apparent frustrations seem to have been acknowledged. Since the news broke, several prominent USA stars have been thrust into the media spotlight.

Tiger Woods wants the $400,000 to go to charity, and captain Keegan Bradley was shocked the news leaked initially.

After Woods and Bradley, Cantlay’s reaction is arguably the most anticipated, and the eight-time PGA Tour winner shared his thoughts at this week’s Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.

Patrick Cantlay reacts to USA Ryder Cup payment

Speaking after carding a five-under-par opening round at Albany, Cantlay was asked: “There’s been talk the last couple days about the Ryder Cup and American players possibly being paid. What do you know about that, and what are your thoughts on it?”

He replied: “My thoughts on the Ryder Cup are really simple: I’m there to represent my country, and I’m there to win points for my teammates, and that’s it.”

A reporter added, “Does it frustrate you that because of what happened in Rome, people think you are the same or that all Americans maybe want to be paid?”

Cantlay added: “I think that’s a media narrative, and I’m not going to fall into that.”

• READ MORE: Justin Thomas delivers honest verdict on USA players being paid at the 2025 Ryder Cup

USA Ryder Cup payment decision not rubber-stamped

Despite speculation emerging that USA players are set to be paid, captain Bradley has revealed that no decision has been finalised. “There’s been nothing that’s been finalised, done. This is all speculation at this point,” he told Sports Illustrated.

The payment discourse will continue to emerge over the coming months, a situation that is sure to infuriate the US captain. With the Europeans set to play for free, those with ties to the Wentworth-based authority will view the payment row as fuel heading into the Bethpage Black event.

Clarity is required for the Americans to ease the current situation. Bradley must confirm whether his side will be paid. Once that’s done, the 38-year-old should indicate where the potential wages will go, whether to charity or remain at the player’s discretion.