Thursday Presidents Cup Tee Times: Fourballs Pairings and Matchups for Sept. 24

How the Pairings Could Shape Early Momentum

The 2026 Presidents Cup kicks off on Thursday, September 24 at Medinah Country Club with the opening round of fourball matches. Team USA, led by captain Brandt Snedeker, will begin their campaign with world number one Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns teeing off first. The International team will look to counter with their own strategic pairings as both sides compete for early momentum in the biennial Ryder Cup-style event.

Snedeker’s decision to lead with Scheffler and Burns reflects a bold strategy aimed at setting the tone early. The pairing combines Scheffler’s consistent dominance with Burns’ recent form and chemistry, having played together successfully in past team events. Medinah’s challenging layout, known for its tight fairways and demanding greens, will test both teams’ precision and nerves from the outset. The fourball format, where each player plays their own ball and the better score counts, encourages aggressive play and teamwork.

What Adjustments Might Captains Make After Day One?

The American captain’s choice to frontload his lineup signals confidence in his top players’ ability to gain an advantage. Burns, ranked eighth in the world, has shown strong performances in recent majors and brings energy to the team. Meanwhile, the International side, though not detailed in the source, will likely respond with pairings designed to neutralize the American threat. Early success in fourballs often influences the psychological edge heading into foursomes and singles matches later in the week.

Depending on how the opening matches unfold, both captains may alter their strategies for the subsequent sessions. If the Americans secure early wins, Snedeker might stick with his top pairings. Conversely, if the Internationals gain ground, adjustments could include mixing in less-exposed players or altering the order to spark momentum. The flexibility to adapt based on performance is a hallmark of successful Presidents Cup captaincy.

What time do the first matches begin on Thursday? The exact tee times were not specified in the source, but fourball matches typically begin in the morning and continue through the afternoon, with groups sent off in intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the fourball format work in the Presidents Cup? In fourball, each golfer plays their own ball throughout the hole, and the lower score between the two teammates counts for the team. The team with the better score wins the hole.

Can the pairings change after the first day? Yes, captains have the flexibility to adjust pairings for foursomes and singles matches based on performance, strategy, and player rest, though fourball pairings are set for each session.