Format
The Ryder Cup is a match play event, with each match worth one point. From 1963 through 1971 the competition format was as follows:
- Day 1 — 8 foursomes (alternate shot) matches, 4 each in morning and afternoon sessions
- Day 2 — 8 four-ball (better ball) matches, 4 each in morning and afternoon sessions
- Day 3 — 16 singles matches, 8 each in morning and afternoon sessions
With a total of 32 points, 16½ points were required to win the Cup. All matches were played to a maximum of 18 holes.
Read more about this topic: 1971 Ryder Cup