The United States’ 2025 Ryder Cup team has officially named its new captain. Keegan Bradley, who was previously left out of the team for the 2023 event, has been chosen to lead the team in their upcoming match against Europe at Bethpage next year. The announcement was made by the PGA of America on Monday.
“I am incredibly honored to accept this opportunity to Captain the United States Team at the 2025 Ryder Cup,” said Bradley in a statement. “I would like to thank the PGA of America Ryder Cup Committee for their trust in me as we embark on this journey to Bethpage Black.
“My passion and appreciation for golf’s greatest team event have never been stronger. The Ryder Cup is unlike any other competition in our sport, and this edition will undoubtedly be particularly special given the rich history and enthusiastic spectators at this iconic course. I look forward to beginning preparations for 2025.”
Initially, Tiger Woods was seen as the frontrunner for the captaincy, but he indicated in May that he was preoccupied with his involvement in navigating the PGA Tour-Saudi Arabia alignment. Woods may still play an advisory role based on Bradley’s preferences.
During the PGA Championship in May, Woods mentioned that he was unsure if he had the time to commit to the captain’s role due to his current priorities with the PGA Tour. He expressed his dedication to his current projects and didn’t want to take on the captaincy if he couldn’t fulfill the responsibilities.
Bradley’s selection as captain marks a significant turnaround from his exclusion in the previous Ryder Cup under Zach Johnson. The U.S. team’s defeat in Rome last year has prompted a strategic change, with hopes for a better outcome at Bethpage Black in New York.
Bradley, a six-time PGA Tour winner, has participated in three international team events, with a career record of 4-2 in the Ryder Cup and 2-2-1 in the Presidents Cup. Despite missing out on a captain’s selection last year, Bradley’s passion for the Ryder Cup remains strong.
Team Europe has confirmed that Luke Donald, the victorious 2023 captain, will return for the 2025 event.