The Ryder Cup is golf's foremost match play contested biennially in an event called the "Ryder Cup Matches" by teams from Europe and the United States. The Matches are jointly administered by the PGA of America and the PGA European Tour.

The competition began following an exhibition match in 1926 of a team representing American professionals against a similar one representing the British PGA on the East Course, Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, UK

The 2006 Ryder Cup was played at the K Club Golf Course in Co.Kildare, Ireland. It was the first time that The Ryder Cup had been held in Ireland. Louisville is host to the Ryder Cup 2008, which will be held at Valhalla Golf Club just outside the city in September 2008.