The Walker Cup serves as a prestigious platform for amateur golf’s most promising talents. Notable golfers like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Thomas have honed their skills in this biennial clash between the USA and Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I). The 50th edition in 2025 will take place at the stunning Cypress Point Club located on California’s Monterey Peninsula, a breathtaking yet challenging backdrop for the event.
Understanding the Walker Cup
Established in 1922 and named after USGA president George Herbert Walker (the grandfather of President George H.W. Bush), the Walker Cup features two 10-man teams comprised of the top male amateurs from the United States and Great Britain & Ireland. The USA leads the series with a record of 39–9–1, though GB&I has pulled off notable upsets, most recently in 2015 at Royal Lytham & St Annes.
Over the course of two days, 26 points are contested through foursomes (alternate shot) and singles matches. The USA requires 13 points to retain the Cup, while GB&I needs 13.5 to win it back.
Cypress Point: A Match Play Marvel
Cypress Point is often hailed as the most beautiful golf course globally, a sentiment echoed by Captain Nathan Smith. “I think Cypress is by far the greatest golf club in the world,” he expresses. “It’s beyond words.”
Designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1928, Cypress Point measures just 6,620 yards, yet every hole demands precision, bravery, and strategy. From the dramatic cliffside par-3 16th to the short and easily drivable 9th, it is a course designed for thrilling moments. Smith particularly enjoys holes 5 through 9, referring to them as “some of the most fun holes you’ll ever play.”
The last Walker Cup held at Cypress Point was in 1981, where the USA triumphed 15–9. Over four decades later, the tournament returns to this historic and enigmatic venue.
Team USA: Strength and Experience
Captain Nathan Smith has assembled a team that combines youth and experience. The roster includes:
- Stewart Hagestad — 34, a Walker Cup veteran competing for the fifth time.
- Mason Howell — The 2025 U.S. Amateur champion from The Olympic Club.
- Jacob Modleski — Notre Dame standout and 2025 ACC Champion.
- Tommy Morrison — Winner of the 2024 European Amateur.
- Jase Summy — 2025 Western Amateur champion.
- Jackson Koivun — The current World No. 1 amateur.
- Ben James — Returning Walker Cup participant.
- Michael La Sasso — 2025 NCAA individual champion.
- Ethan Fang
- Preston Stout
Alternates: Miles Russell (16), Max Herendeen (20).
Highlighting the team’s core, Smith noted Koivun, James, and La Sasso as vital players. “Incredible athletes—but equally important, they are great individuals,” he commented. The captain emphasized honoring the Walker Cup tradition by including a mid-amateur, ultimately selecting Hagestad for his leadership.
Team GB&I: Rising Stars and Intriguing Stories
Under the guidance of Captain Dean Robertson, a former European Tour winner, the GB&I team showcases various storylines. This squad combines young talents, seasoned players, and a notable comeback story. Nine members participated in the recent victory against the Continent of Europe at the St Andrews Trophy this summer.
- Tyler Weaver (England, 20) — The highest-ranked player on the team at No. 11 in WAGR.
- Luke Poulter (England, 21) — Son of Ryder Cup icon Ian Poulter, he is known for his competitive spirit.
- Connor Graham (Scotland, 18) — The youngest team member, he is the sole returning player from 2023.
- Niall Shiels Donegan (Scotland, 20) — Semifinalist at the U.S. Amateur, known for excelling in the U.S.
- Cameron Adam (Scotland, 22) — Long hitter who remains composed under pressure.
- Stuart Grehan (Ireland, 32) — A former pro making his long-awaited Walker Cup debut.
- Charlie Forster (England, 22) — Brings valuable team match experience.
- Dominic Clemons (England, 23) — Recognized for his consistency and competitive tenacity.
- Eliot Baker (England, 22) — Has built a robust amateur record with significant international achievements.
- Gavin Tiernan (Ireland, 19) — The youngest Irishman in the squad, seen as a future star.
Reserve: Caolan Rafferty (Ireland, 32).
“This talented team embodies skill, unity, resilience, and determination,” Robertson stated. “Although we are underdogs, I believe we have what it takes to compete at the highest level.”
Schedule & Broadcast Information
Saturday, Sept. 6
- Morning Foursomes: 8–8:45 a.m. PDT
- Singles: 1:45–2:55 p.m. PDT
- Broadcast: Peacock (12:30–3:30 p.m. EDT), Golf Channel (7–10 p.m. EDT)
Sunday, Sept. 7
- Morning Foursomes: 8–8:45 a.m. PDT
- Singles: 1:30–3 p.m. PDT
- Closing Ceremony: 7 p.m.
- Broadcast: Peacock (12:30–3:30 p.m. EDT), Golf Channel (7–10 p.m. EDT)
A Legacy of Champions
The Walker Cup first took place in 1922 at the National Golf Links of America, where the USA team, featuring legends like Francis Ouimet, Bob Jones, Charles “Chick” Evans, and Jess Sweetser, defeated GB&I. This historic event has introduced numerous future major champions and Ryder Cup stars. While the USA has traditionally dominated, moments like GB&I’s victory in 2015 at Royal Lytham remain memorable.
With its return after 44 years, Cypress Point becomes part of an elite group of host venues, stirring anticipation for this year’s competition. Its blend of risk-reward holes and breathtaking views is likely to create some of the most thrilling moments in Walker Cup history.
Future Locations
- 2026 — Lahinch Golf Club (Ireland)
- 2028 — Bandon Dunes (Oregon)
- 2030 — Prince’s Golf Club (England)
- 2032 — Oakmont Country Club (Pennsylvania)
- 2036 — Chicago Golf Club (Illinois)
- 2044 — Pine Valley Golf Club (New Jersey)
