New York, USA – For weeks, the golf world debated whether Keegan Bradley would make history as the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963. He had the season for it, the passion, and even the public support of US President Donald Trump. But on Wednesday, Bradley provided his answer: he won’t be playing.
In a decision that surprised many, the 39-year-old opted to focus solely on his captain’s duties, stating that the Ryder Cup has become a “different animal” since Palmer’s day. He put the team’s chances of winning above his own lifelong dream of competing, saying he would do whatever he felt was best for the team.
The Picks that Completed the Team
By deciding not to select himself, Bradley filled his six captain’s picks with a blend of proven veterans and promising rookies. He named two-time major winners Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa, along with Ryder Cup veterans Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns. For the two remaining spots, he chose Ryder Cup rookies Ben Griffin and Cameron Young.
They will join the six automatic qualifiers for the US lineup:
- Scottie Scheffler (No. 1 in world rankings)
- Xander Schauffele (two-time major winner)
- Bryson DeChambeau (two-time major winner)
- JJ Spaun (US Open winner)
- Russell Henley (Ryder Cup rookie)
- Harris English
The Stakes at Bethpage Black
The US team will now turn its full focus toward recapturing the trophy they lost to Europe in Rome two years ago. The Americans surrendered the Cup with a 16.5-11.5 loss in 2023 and will be aiming to get their revenge on home soil. Team Europe, meanwhile, will try to capture their first away victory since the “Miracle at Medinah” in 2012.
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