Oklahoma junior Ryder Cowan has been chosen to represent the U.S. in the 2026 Arnold Palmer Cup, as announced on Golf Channel. He is the sixth Sooner to join this prestigious event and follows fellow Sooner Jase Summy, who played in 2025.
The Arnold Palmer Cup is a Ryder Cup-style tournament that brings together the best collegiate golfers from the U.S. and around the world. This year’s event will take place from July 3-5 at Tralee Golf Links in West Barrow, Ireland.
Cowan is currently ranked 14th in the NCAA and 22nd in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. His impressive stats include nine top-20 finishes this season, five of which were top-10, along with two wins in just 12 events. His scoring average of -1.25 against par is one of the best in Oklahoma’s history.
Notably, Cowan has had 15 rounds in the 60s this season and has 23 rounds of par or better, setting a record last year with 30 rounds. A two-time All-American, he has consistently excelled since joining OU, with a career average of 70.74.
Cowan was highly recruited, entering college as the seventh-best player in the 2023 class and the top golfer in Oklahoma. He previously won two state championships and was named a two-time AJGA Rolex All-American.
The United States has historically performed well in the Arnold Palmer Cup, winning 15 of its 29 editions, including two out of the last three. Cowan joins a solid lineup of Sooners at the event, including past competitors like Brad Dalke, Quade Cummins, and Garett Reband.
Oklahoma’s head coach, Ryan Hybl, adds another layer of connection to the event, having played for Team USA in 2002 and later coaching the U.S. team in 2018.
We’re also excited to note that Oklahoma’s women’s golf head coach, Veronique Drouin-Luttrell, will serve as an assistant coach for the International team.
The Arnold Palmer Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a stepping stone for golfers. Over 250 alumni have made it to professional tours like the PGA and LPGA. Plus, 46 former participants have played in prestigious events like the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup, showcasing the huge impact of this event on the future of golf.
For more detailed information about the Arnold Palmer Cup, you can visit the official site.
