Keegan Bradley Makes Unprecedented Move, Forgoes Playing Role in 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup Team
Farmingdale, New York – In a decision that surprised many in the golf world, Keegan Bradley, captain of the 2025 United States Ryder Cup team, officially announced that he will not select himself as a player for this year’s competition. This marks the first time since Arnold Palmer in 1963 that the U.S. Ryder Cup captain has chosen not to be a playing member of the team.
Bradley, 39, who had been a candidate to serve as a playing captain, revealed his six captain’s picks on August 27. They are Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay, and Sam Burns. Four of these players — Thomas, Morikawa, Cantlay, and Burns — come with Ryder Cup experience, while Griffin and Young will make their debuts. These selections, combined with the six players who qualified based on points — namely Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau — complete the 2025 U.S. roster for the Ryder Cup scheduled from September 26-28 at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York.
Bradley’s Unselfish Decision
Bradley’s decision not to include himself punctuates a remarkable moment of selflessness in professional golf. After coming heartbreakingly close yet missing out on selection for the 2023 Ryder Cup team, many expected Bradley to pick himself and become the first playing U.S. captain in over 60 years. However, he opted instead to focus solely on his captaincy duties, thereby prioritizing the team’s success over personal ambitions.
Speaking about the decision, Bradley acknowledged the difficulty, expressing both the passion he has for playing in the Ryder Cup and his resolve that this choice presented the best chance for the team’s triumph. His decision was made even tougher by the realization that at age 39, his window for Ryder Cup competition is narrowing.
The Six Captain’s Picks
- Justin Thomas: Ryder Cup veteran with multiple appearances and a strong track record in international team events.
- Collin Morikawa: Known for his composure and precision, Morikawa returns as a proven Ryder Cup competitor.
- Ben Griffin: Set to make his Ryder Cup debut, Griffin has impressed with his recent performances on the PGA Tour.
- Cameron Young: Another rookie pick, Young brings youthful energy and talent to the team.
- Patrick Cantlay: A seasoned Ryder Cup player, Cantlay adds reliability and experience to the squad.
- Sam Burns: Returning for his second Ryder Cup appearance, Burns is particularly noted for his exceptional putting skills. In the 2025 PGA Tour season, Burns led in strokes gained putting and was one of the top players in putting inside 10 feet, reinforcing his value in match play scenarios.
Team Composition and Prospects
With a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, Bradley expressed confidence that the team is well-positioned to reclaim the Ryder Cup, which the U.S. lost in a hard-fought battle in Rome in 2023. The final roster combines the rigor of proven representation with the freshness of new talent, all aiming for victory on the challenging Bethpage Black course.
Looking Ahead to the Ryder Cup
The Ryder Cup will take place from September 26-28, 2025, at the famed Bethpage Black course in New York, a venue known for its demanding layout and passionate fans. Bradley’s leadership and the carefully selected squad will look to bring the Cup back to the United States after the narrow defeat two years ago.
Bradley’s announcement has been met with high praise across the golf community, highlighting both his team-first mentality and the strong depth of American golf talent available for the Ryder Cup challenge this year.