Luke Donald fires fresh pay dig at USA with Ryder Cup not 'about prize money'

Luke Donald took a swipe at the USA during his address at the opening ceremony, with the European captain declaring the Ryder Cup "isn't about prize money" - precisely as the hosts have brought in payments for players.

The opening ceremony was moved forward 24 hours owing to concerns over poor weather conditions, and Donald, who is leading Europe for the second consecutive time, once more referenced the payment row that has overshadowed preparations for the 2025 tournament.

European golfers remain unpaid but the Americans will receive compensation for the first time following the controversy that lingered two years ago, when Patrick Cantlay declined to don his cap in a quiet demonstration of his displeasure.

Donald spoke first and declared: "To lead these men, is one of the greatest privileges of my life. Not just individual players, from nine nations, but one team. Defined by unity, playing for something greater than ourselves. It means so much to us, and it's unlike anything else in this sport, it's not about prize money or world ranking points. It's about pride. Representing your flag, shirt and the legacy you leave behind."

Keegan Bradley and his 12-strong squad will each pocket £370,000 - with a substantial portion required to go towards charitable causes. The American captain has maintained that the departure from tradition at Bethpage Black in New York would bring the tournament into "today's age."

Donald has recently revealed that he had discussions with his players about whether they wanted to be paid, similar to their American counterparts. He expressed immense pride in their decision to play for free, believing the experience would outweigh any monetary gain.

"This isn't a week to get paid," Donald stated on Monday. "We have such strong purpose in this team, in what we play for, and to be honest we reinvest some of that money back into the experience of these guys.

"I feel like, if you have those experiences that you remember for the rest of your life, that's worth more than a couple hundred thousand dollars in the back of your pocket."

Donald is striving to secure the first away victory in the Ryder Cup since 2012, with the Miracle at Medinah firmly imprinted in sporting history. Hosting the tournament has been a significant advantage, and the captain is well aware of the challenge that lies ahead in front of a raucous crowd.

"We know what awaits us, Bethpage is not shy, loyal and ferociously loud, rightly so," he said. "You respect effort over ego, those who fight, grind and rise to the big occasions. You make us earn every cheer. We may not be your team, but we'll give you something to respect, admire and maybe something to cheer for."