He made the top hundred on the European Tour Order of Merit every year from the first season in 1972 through to 1993.

Cañizares was a member of four European Ryder Cup teams and had a record of 5 wins, 4 losses and two ties, including 2.5 points in four singles matches.

In 1985 his singles victory over Fuzzy Zoeller rubber-stamped a European win that took the trophy from the Americans for the first time in 28 years.

In 1989 his putt to beat Ken Green on the 18th at The Belfry ensured a 14–14 tie and keep the cup in European hands.

Cañizares won the World Cup team event for Spain on two occasions.