Team USA captain Keegan Bradley on the 13th hole during the four-balls on the first day of competition for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.

The year 1979 marked a pivotal moment in Ryder Cup history — it was the first time the team opposing the United States featured golfers from all of Europe. Prior to that, the Americans competed against a 12-man squad from Great Britain and Ireland (and before that, just Great Britain).

Another notable introduction in 1979 was the “envelope rule,” designed to address the possibility of player injury.

What Is the Ryder Cup 'Envelope Rule?'

In the event of an injury, each team captain must select one player in advance — sealed in an envelope — who will be withdrawn from the Sunday singles matches if an opposing player is unable to compete. This ensures both teams remain evenly matched.

  • Sunday update: the Ryder Cup did invoke the rule, as Viktor Hovland was unable to compete.

Viktor Hovland’s injury and its implications

During Saturday’s Ryder Cup play, Viktor Hovland withdrew from the afternoon four-ball matches due to a neck injury, with Tyrrell Hatton stepping in as his replacement. Hovland shared that the issue has been recurring:

“I’ve had some issues with a neck injury on and off for the last two months,” he said. “I took some painkillers on the seventh hole and got treatment from Matt Roberts, the physio, on the tenth tee box. It stayed the same for the rest of the match. After resting and more treatment, I tried hitting shots on the range. After a few hard swings, it got worse.”

“I didn’t want to risk it in the match in case it got worse and I couldn’t continue—especially in fourballs, where you hit every shot. I had to pull out of the Travelers Championship earlier this year for the same reason. I’ve been struggling with it since then. Not as bad, but similar.”

What happens if Hovland can’t play Sunday?

If Hovland is unable to compete in the singles matches, U.S. captain Keegan Bradley would be required to reveal the name of the player in his envelope — essentially the one he believes has the least chance of winning. While the envelope’s contents aren’t always disclosed, if revealed, it could be a blow to the ego of the player named.

Hovland remains hopeful:

“I’m going to get some treatment this afternoon and tonight and hopefully I’ll be okay for the singles tomorrow.”

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: What is Ryder Cup 'envelope rule' and who is in Keegan Bradley's envelope? We might find out

Reporting by Todd Kelly and Tim Schmitt, Golfweek / Golfweek

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect