Keegan Bradley Names Six Captain’s Picks for 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup Team, Excludes Himself
Farmingdale, NY — In a highly anticipated announcement on August 27, 2025, Keegan Bradley revealed his six captain’s picks to complete the United States roster for the upcoming Ryder Cup, set to be held September 26-28 at Bethpage Black. Notably, Bradley, who was appointed captain in July 2024, confirmed that he would not be selecting himself to play in the competition.
Bradley’s six selections are Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, and Cameron Young. The picks join a team that already includes qualifiers Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau, forming a strong lineup aiming to reclaim U.S. dominance in the biennial contest.
Reflecting on the decision to exclude himself, Bradley, 39, stated, “There was a stretch this season when I was in the running, but these players stepped up significantly and earned their spots on the team. The decision was made some time ago that I wouldn’t be playing.” He added that his focus was on being “the best captain” possible and doing what is best for the team overall.
This announcement marks the conclusion of a period of uncertainty regarding Bradley’s playing status. After being overlooked for the 2023 Ryder Cup team, his appointment to captain represented a strategic leadership shift by the PGA of America. Despite his passion for competing, Bradley emphasized his role as team leader and his commitment to defending the iconic Bethpage Black course, a public course renowned for its challenge and accessibility to the local community.
Among the captain’s picks, Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, and Ben Griffin secured spots near the top of the final points standings—ranks 7th to 9th, respectively—and Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, and Cameron Young round out the squad. Particularly memorable was the moment Bradley called Sam Burns to deliver the news of his selection, underscoring the personal and emotional nature of the captain’s responsibility.
The U.S. team, under Bradley’s stewardship, will face a European squad led once again by Captain Luke Donald, who will announce his six captain picks separately. The Ryder Cup has been a challenging event for the United States in recent years, with only three wins in the last eleven matches, but home victories in 2016 and 2021 have demonstrated the team’s potential with dominant performances.
With a blend of experienced stars and rising talents, the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup Team looks to leverage home advantage and the leadership of Bradley to reclaim golf’s most prestigious international team trophy. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely at Bethpage Black as the American team seeks to build momentum in a competition known for its intensity and drama.