The Ryder Cup stipend controversy for Team USA has stirred ongoing debate among fans, insiders, and even the European squad. The issue, reignited after Luke Donald’s opening speech, has drawn attention from the LPGA circuit as well. Former star Mel Reid and others aren’t defending the payment but are offering a deeper perspective on the matter — one that goes beyond the surface of financial fairness.

On the Quiet Please podcast, hosts Kira Dixon and Mel Reid discussed the $500,000 Ryder Cup stipend for Team USA players — split into $300,000 for charity and $200,000 for personal use. Dixon noted that while players can donate the full amount, the sum means little to top pros and only fuels criticism about Team USA’s commitment and collective pride.

“My question is — $200,000 to these guys

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