Asian Players Lead Presidents Cup at Redesigned Medinah

Presidents Cup Underway in Chicago

The 2026 Presidents Cup is currently unfolding at Medinah Country Club in Chicago, running from 24–27 September. The biennial match-play competition brings together 24 of the world’s top golfers, divided into the United States Team and the International Team.

Historically, the Americans have shown considerable dominance in this event, securing victory in 13 of the 15 previous editions, including the last 10. The International Team's only outright win occurred in 1998 at Royal Melbourne, with the 2003 contest concluding in a tie.

This year's contest at Medinah presents a fresh challenge for both sides, with the International Team aiming to disrupt the American winning streak on a course that has undergone significant changes.

Medinah’s Transformed Course No. 3

Medinah Country Club, recognised for hosting major championships like three U.S. Opens, two PGA Championships, and the 2012 Ryder Cup, is presenting a substantially redesigned Course No. 3 for the Presidents Cup. The Australian firm Ogilvy Cocking Mead (OCM), co-founded by International Team captain Geoff Ogilvy, led the extensive renovation.

This project introduced three new holes, increased the number of bunkers from approximately 70 to 117, and expanded the total bunker area to about 204,000 square feet. The layout for the Presidents Cup measures approximately 7,548 yards and plays to a par of 70, with the routing also adjusted to suit the match-play format. Ogilvy’s involvement as both a designer and captain adds an unusual dimension to the competition.

International Team Features Strong Asian Contingent

The International Team combines seasoned Presidents Cup players with a group of promising newcomers, including a notable Asian presence. Automatic qualifiers include Si Woo Kim, Hideki Matsuyama, Tom Kim, Min Woo Lee, and Sungjae Im, alongside Australian veteran Adam Scott, who is making his 12th appearance.

Captain Geoff Ogilvy’s selections further bolster the team with players like Ryo Hisatsune, Nico Echavarria, Corey Conners, Nick Taylor, and Christiaan Bezuidenhout. Ryan Fox, the reigning Open Champion, is also making his debut.

The United States Team, captained by Brandt Snedeker, features world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young, Wyndham Clark, Sam Burns, Russell Henley, and Collin Morikawa, complemented by captain’s picks such as Xander Schauffele and Justin Thomas.

Match Play Format and The Challenge Ahead

The Presidents Cup competition consists of 30 matches played over four days. The schedule begins with five Four-ball matches on Thursday, followed by five Foursomes matches on Friday. Saturday features a mix of four Foursomes and four Four-ball matches, culminating in 12 Singles matches on Sunday.

Each match is worth one point, with a tied match awarding half a point to each side. The first team to accumulate 15.5 points is declared the champion. If the overall score finishes at 15-15, the Cup is shared.

The International Team faces the challenge of breaking the United States' decade-long winning streak, requiring strong partnerships and individual performances throughout the event to gain an early advantage.

Visibility for Asian Golfers and Regional Impact

The significant representation of Asian players on the International Team provides substantial visibility for golf across the continent.

Their performance at Medinah, particularly from established figures like Hideki Matsuyama and rising stars such as Tom Kim and Min Woo Lee, can inspire a new generation of golfers and boost viewership and engagement for the Presidents Cup in key Asian markets.

This engagement could translate into increased participation in junior golf programmes and greater interest in professional tours within Asia, driving the sport's growth in the region. The event offers a platform for these players to showcase their talent on a global stage, potentially influencing sponsorship and investment in Asian golf.