Stephen Gallacher is defending the DP World Tour against claims that its PGA Tour pathway weakens European golf. The Ryder Cup star cited recent wins by pathway graduates as proof that the system is thriving.

Speaking to reporters at Gleneagles, Gallacher pushed back on criticism that the DP World Tour's ten-card pathway to the PGA Tour weakens European golf. The system, launched in 2023, awards PGA Tour cards to the tour's ten leading players each season.

"It's a controversial one, but the guys that get into America seem to fly," Gallacher said. "People are saying maybe it weakens the DP World Tour and whatnot, but you only need to look at Bob getting the opportunity to go over, multiple Ryder Cup player. Aaron Rai going over, the Fitzpatricks, Reitan he's flying as well. He's won an elevated event, which is huge."

The debate was sparked last week when 1991 Masters champion Ian Woosnam blasted the pathway on social media. Interestingly, that was his one and only Major championship.

"How does the DP Tour bring in sponsorship for tournaments when losing them players," he wrote on X. "What really is the DP Tour now? I see it as a feeder tour for the PGA Tour? Wow."

Gallacher wasn't buying it. He argued European golf has "never been in a healthier position."

"You've got other guys just below the radar," he said. "Harry Hall could easily get in the Ryder Cup. Alex Fitzpatrick could easily get in. Aaron Rai could get in, Reitan could get in, the Hojgaards are playing well. Our boys are flying. Absolutely flying."

McIlroy had made a similar point before Woosnam's comments. The world No. 2 praised the system, highlighting how Kristoffer Reitan used the pathway to earn a PGA Tour card and subsequently won a Signature Event.

Now, another player climbing through that same pathway could be forcing his way into an even bigger conversation ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Aaron Rai's Major Win Makes Him a Ryder Cup Contender

Much of the conversation at Gleneagles also turned to Aaron Rai. Last week, he became the first Englishman in over 100 years to win the PGA Championship.

Both Gallacher and former Ryder Cup teammate Jamie Donaldson backed Rai to feature in next year's match at Adare Manor.

"Why would you not want to play with someone like him?" Gallacher said. "He's got a great temperament and is such a nice guy. You know he's got the minerals down the stretch."

Donaldson was equally enthusiastic about what such a win could do for a player.

"Winning a major has proven he can take his game to another level," he said. "You saw how cool he was on the back nine on Sunday and that's the sort of temperament you want in your Ryder Cup side."

Rai dominantly captured the 2026 PGA Championship, finishing 9 under par and winning by three strokes at Aronimink Golf Club.

For now, the growing support around the DP World Tour pathway suggests many within European golf still view it as a launchpad. With names like Aaron Rai now entering the Ryder Cup conversation, that argument is only getting stronger.

What do you think? Is the DP World Tour pathway good for European golf? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Sneha Abraham

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote