The 2024 Presidents Cup returned to Royal Montreal Golf Club, marking the second time this prestigious tournament has taken place at the historic venue since 2007. With the world’s best golfers from the United States and the International Team competing, the atmosphere in Montreal was nothing short of electric. From star-studded guest appearances to impressive performances on the course, the event was a celebration not only of golf but of Montreal’s vibrant culture. For those lucky enough to attend, it was an experience to remember, and the presence of key partners like Rolex elevated the event to a whole new level.
Rolex and the power of partnership
One of the standout elements of the 2024 Presidents Cup was the undeniable influence of Rolex, a brand that has long been associated with the game of golf. Their partnership was essential in bringing the tournament back to Canada and enhancing the overall experience for both fans and players. As Ryan Hart, Executive Director of the 2024 Presidents Cup, explained, “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the support of partners like Rolex… Their brand helps bring environments like this to the golf course. We just don’t have that chance without them.”
“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the support of partners like Rolex…
Ryan Hart, Executive Director of the 2024 Presidents Cup.
Rolex’s commitment to the sport went beyond mere sponsorship. Their hospitality suites were impeccably designed, providing a luxurious experience for guests. As we enjoyed the suite’s lavish comforts, I couldn’t help but feel incredibly lucky to be there. The suites offered breathtaking views of the course, allowing us to watch the action unfold from a prime vantage point. Every detail, from the décor to the service, was flawlessly executed, making us feel like true VIPs.
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The return to Royal Montreal Golf Club
Hosting the Presidents Cup at Royal Montreal Golf Club for the second time was a proud moment for Canadian golf. As the oldest golf club in North America, Royal Montreal carries a significant weight in the golfing world. The course itself is known for its complexity, with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast greens that test even the best players.
Ryan Hart reflected on the significance of returning to Royal Montreal, noting, “This is a place where you really have to get to know the course and respect it. The complexities of the course layout and the pride of being back here after 17 years is something that elevates the tournament.” With such a challenging layout, it was no surprise that both teams struggled at times to navigate the course’s many traps and twists, making for an exciting and unpredictable tournament.
USA vs. International Team: Battle to the end
The Presidents Cup is always a thrilling contest, and this year’s edition was no different. The United States Team, led by top golfers like Scottie Scheffler and Patrick Cantlay, faced off against the International Team, which included stars such as Cameron Smith and Hideki Matsuyama. The International Team started strong, feeding off the energy of the enthusiastic Montreal crowd. With Mike Weir, a Canadian golf legend, serving as captain of the International Team, the pressure was on for them to deliver a win on home soil.
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Hart touched on Weir’s significance, saying, “We joked when Mike was named captain that him beating Tiger in 2007 was really that ‘where-were-you-when’ moment in Canada. Now it’s up to Mike to create the next ‘where-were-you-when’ moment when the International team wins on Sunday!”
Despite the International Team’s efforts, the U.S. Team eventually came out on top in a closely fought battle. The final hours on Sunday were tense, with both teams within striking distance, but the U.S. managed to pull ahead in the end. While the International Team couldn’t secure the victory, their performance was impressive, and the competition was much closer than the final score suggested.
Notable attendees: A star-studded event
The Presidents Cup always draws an impressive lineup of celebrities and notable figures, and the 2024 edition in Montreal was no exception. The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, (who he held the role of Honorary Chariman for this year’s cup) made an appearance, as did Montreal Mayor, Valérie Plante, and even the Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Toronto, Alexandra Soriano. The world of sports was also well-represented, with hockey legend Wayne Gretzky and UFC star Georges St-Pierre (GSP) both spotted enjoying the action. Even former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien were in attendance, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event.
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Welcome to Royal Montreal, the Great One!
— Presidents Cup (@PresidentsCup) September 26, 2024
Bienvenue au Royal Montréal, La Merveille!#PresidentsCup | @WayneGretzky pic.twitter.com/BF95BdFzAj
The opening ceremony was a particularly memorable moment, with a stunning performance by The Tenors setting the tone for the weekend. Their rendition of the national anthems was a beautiful tribute to both the U.S. and International Teams and helped kick off the tournament in style.
Welcome to Royal Montreal, Honorary Chairman!
— Presidents Cup (@PresidentsCup) September 29, 2024
Bienvenue au Royal Montréal, Président d'honneur!#PresidentsCup pic.twitter.com/45YadFGtua
The complex challenge of the historic, Royal Montreal Golf Club
A key factor in this year’s Presidents Cup was the demanding layout of Royal Montreal Golf Club, one of the oldest clubs in North America, dating back to 1873. Known for its complex design, the Blue Course provided a true test of skill for the competitors. The course features tight fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and undulating greens that challenge even the most experienced golfers.
While we have yet to confirm if it’s the largest course in North America, its sprawling layout and stunning natural beauty certainly gave it that feel. The meticulous care taken to maintain the course was evident, and the setting added to the sense of grandeur surrounding the tournament. Watching the world’s best golfers navigate the course’s challenges was an absolute treat, and it’s easy to see why Royal Montreal has hosted so many prestigious events over the years.
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A proud moment for Canadian golf
As the tournament came to a close, it was clear that hosting the 2024 Presidents Cup was a proud moment for Canadian golf and for Montreal. The event not only showcased the skill and determination of the players but also highlighted the unique culture and energy that Montreal brings to the world stage. The city’s diverse makeup, from its food and festivals to its passionate sports fans, made it the perfect backdrop for this international competition.
Reflecting on the success of the tournament, Ryan Hart expressed his pride in bringing the Presidents Cup back to Canada, stating, “From the Canadian perspective, I am extremely proud. It is really one of the biggest footprints for the Presidents Cup from a fan perspective. Montreal and its passionate sports fans were really one of the reasons we came back.”
A once-in-a-lifetime experience
Looking back on the 2024 Presidents Cup, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. From the meticulously organized hospitality suites provided by Rolex to the dramatic showdown on the course, every aspect of the event was executed to perfection. It was a privilege to witness the tournament firsthand, and sitting down with Ryan Hart, a proud Canadian himself, only added to the sense of pride we felt. And also getting a behind the scenes look at the NBC production trucks and how it all comes together, along with hearing about the proprietary technology used by the PGA to ensure ball tracking, accuracy and more. It was fascinating!
The tournament may have ended with the United States Team taking home the trophy, but the real winner was Montreal. The city proved once again that it’s a world-class host, and we can only hope it won’t be another 17 years before we see the Presidents Cup return to Royal Montreal Golf Club.
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Editor's Note: In the effort of full transparency, Branco was hosted by the Rolex team in Montreal for a first hand experience of the Rolex and Presidents Cup brand partnership and interview with Ryan Hart.
Hero photo: ROLEX TESTIMONEE SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER HITS A TEE SHOT ON THE FINAL DAY OF THE 2024 PRESIDENTS CUP (Credit: Rolex/J.D. Cuban)
