Keegan Bradley speaks with media at his introductory press conference
Last week, the PGA of America announced 38-year-old Keegan Bradley as the captain for Team USA for the 2025 Ryder Cup – a name that came as a huge surprise to the world of golf, including Bradley himself. Until now, the captain being discussed was Tiger Woods, but it was known that Tiger was somewhat reluctant, given his multiple other commitments.
Bradley is a six-time PGA TOUR winner and currently ranked 19th in the world – which would make him a strong candidate to play on the team himself. For the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, he was controversially overlooked by captain Zach Johnson and of course Team USA went down to the Europeans in a match which Europe dominated from day one. The moment of Zach Johnson informing Bradley that he wasn’t picked was captured in Netflix’s documentary series “Full Swing,” where Bradley was seen emotionally reacting to the disappointing news.
Keegan Bradley and his wife Jillian Stacey react to the news informing Bradley’s non-selection for 2023 Ryder Cup
Bradley’s exclusion from the 2023 Ryder Cup team was notable, as he had earned more qualification points than captain’s pick Justin Thomas, who struggled with form throughout the season. So, captaincy is a fitting redemption for Keegan Bradley.
Bradley has made only two appearances as a player at the Ryder Cup in 2012 and 2014 and turns 39 in September next year, making him the youngest captain to lead Team USA since Arnold Palmer in 1963.
The PGA of America which selects the Ryder Cup captain should have been looking at a player like Phil Mickelson as captain but since he went to the LIV Tour Mickelson could not be selected.
After players got over the surprise announcement of Bradley’s captaincy, reactions are positive, citing Bradley’s zeal for the Ryder Cup, his determination and passion for winning and the youthful energy he could bring to the team.
Photo – SB Nation