In an “out of nowhere” decision, the PGA of America has named Keegan Bradley as U.S. captain of its 2025 Ryder Cup team at Bethpage Black on Long Island. Tiger Woods – the forever frontrunner – reportedly “passed” on the position. It’s not known why Woods passed on the captaincy, but it could be one of two things: Woods’ participation with the PGA Tour in its negotiations with LIV Golf; or simply that he didn’t want to take the time to put up with all the dog-and-pony show antics the PGA puts its captains through.
Bradley, on the other hand, likely will play along with all of the PGA’s pre-Ryder Cup appearances and press conferences – and most importantly – not overshadow the event itself – as Woods certainly would have done. A six-time winner on the PGA Tour and two-time member of the U.S. Ryder Cup team, Bradley, 38, will be the youngest Ryder Cup captain since 34-year-old Arnold Palmer was a playing captain in 1963, a historical achievement in itself.
“I am incredibly honored to accept this opportunity to captain the United States Team at the 2025 Ryder Cup,” said Bradley in a statement released Monday. “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 in Farmingdale, New York.
“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.”
For more information about the 2025 Ryder Cup, visit rydercup.com/2025