Dispatch from the Ryder Cup in France

First published: September 26, 2018 by France Today Editors 1

For the first time in history, the Ryder Cup is taking place in France. The weather is glorious at Le Golf National outside Paris, as the world’s greatest golfers hit the course for practice rounds before the matches start on Friday. The U.S. team is bolstered by Tiger Woods’ recent big win. (When he won the Tour Championship on Sunday, it marked his 80th PGA Tour victory; news outlets are calling it “a comeback for the ages.”) The United States is attempting to win on European soil for the first time since 1993. The Europe team includes star players like Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson.

Kelly Slater plays in the celebrity match. Photo: France Today

To have the Ryder Cup in France is a showcase for golf in the country. There are some 600 courses in the Hexagon, but many golf-loving travelers don’t realize that France is a great destination for golf. In addition, the French Federation of Golf has worked hard to democratize the sport; this week the Federation has set up a free “golf village” on the parvis de l’Hôtel de Ville in Paris, where you can tee off in the putting zone, practice your drive, and watch the Ryder Cup matches on a big screen.

A dedicated France pavilion at the Ryder Cup has stands with information about golf in each region, and golf news like a new special pass in the Côte d’Azur. Why not print your photo at the kiosk for a chance to win special prizes?

Moët & Chandon champagne brasserie. Photo: France Today

France Today enjoyed a gorgeous day at the Ryder Cup yesterday, scoping out the European and U.S. teams on their practice rounds, while also catching the celebrity matches, starring pro surfer Kelly Slater; former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice; actors Jamie Dornan, Dany Boon and Samuel Jackson; tennis stars John McEnroe, Guy Forget, and James Blake; swimming legend Michael Phelps and more…

This being France, there was a Moët & Chandon champagne brasserie (multi-course meal with wine pairings, anyone?) in addition to the fish & chips stands.

For more information visit www.rydercup.com.