Ryder Cup matchplay format explained
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The Ryder Cup is a three-day tournament in which 12-member teams representing Europe and the United States compete in 28 matches featuring three different types of matchplay
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DAYS 1 AND 2: 16 matches
  
Four-ball: Each match has two teams of two players, with everyone playing their own ball 8 matches (four per day)

Foursomes: Two teams of two, but each pair uses one ball and players hit alternate shots
8 matches (four per day)
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DAY 3: 12 matches

Singles: One player per team. Team captains list their players from 1-12 and each then plays against his opposite number
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Scoring: Match winner after 18 holes is awarded one point for their team. Both teams earn half-point if match is tied
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Winner: First team to 141/2 points. If scores are level at 14-14, defending team retains cup
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RYDER CUP ALL-TIME POINTS
(1927-2018)

United States
116 1/2
153
272 1/2
542 Total

Europe*
104 1/2
128
209 1/2
442 Total
  
All-time wins

26 14
U.S. Europe
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*Europe team known as Great Britain until 1971, and as Great Britain and Ireland from 1973-1977. Team has included players from continental Europe since 1979
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Source: The PGA of America / Ryder Cup Europe LLP Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS