Keegan Bradley Named US Ryder Cup Captain for 2025

Keegan Bradley, despite not being the PGA of America’s initial choice, will captain the United States in the 2025 Ryder Cup following Tiger Woods’ decline of the role. Bradley expressed his enthusiasm for the prestigious event, emphasizing its unique nature and historical significance especially as it returns to the Bethpage Black course in New York from September 25-28, 2025.

As a player, Bradley participated in two Ryder Cups but ended up on the losing side both times, in 2012 and 2014. PGA of America president John Lindert highlighted Bradley’s Ryder Cup experience, strong relationships, and unwavering passion for the event as pivotal factors for his selection. Bradley’s appointment breaks from the PGA of America’s recent trend of appointing captains who previously served as assistant captains.

Despite missing out on automatic qualification for the 2021 Ryder Cup, Bradley, known for his five PGA Tour victories including the 2011 US PGA Championship, notably did not receive a captain’s wildcard from Zach Johnson. Critics note Bradley’s unconventional path to the captaincy, highlighting his outsider status and past clashes, such as a memorable altercation with Miguel Angel Jimenez.

Nevertheless, many believe he has the capability to motivate the US team to reclaim the Ryder Cup, lost in a decisive defeat at Marco Simone in 2023. During the tournament, Keegan Bradley will be 39 years old, making him the youngest US captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963, albeit without Palmer’s stature. Despite his unorthodox selection, Bradley’s leadership will be closely watched as he aims to guide the US team to victory against Europe.