,Bethpage Black, New York, August 29, 2025
News Summary
In a surprising turn, Team USA’s Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley has opted out of the competition to focus on leadership. The final team lineup consists of strong automatic qualifiers and strategic captain’s picks, blending experience and form. With the Ryder Cup taking place at Bethpage Black, preparations are underway to build team chemistry and pairings for success against Europe.
New York — Ryder Cup Shockwave: Captain Keegan Bradley Rules Himself Out, Names Final Six Picks
The surprise that wasn’t really a surprise
In a move that sent ripples across the golf world, Team USA’s captain has officially removed himself from playing contention for the upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. The decision was not sudden; it was made some time ago and reflects a captain who chose leadership over swinging clubs in competition. The captain focused fully on assembling a lineup that mixes steady veterans, in-form stars, and proven match-play performers.
Final 12: Who’s in and how the team shapes up
Automatic qualifiers and captain’s picks together form the twelve-man roster that will take on Europe at Bethpage Black from September 26-28. The automatic qualifiers bring star power and experience, while the six picks reflect the captain’s priorities: chemistry, match-play pedigree, and recent form.
Automatic qualifiers: Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau, Russell Henley, Harris English.
Captain’s six picks: Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns.
Why the captain stepped back
The captain had a strong season, capped by a memorable victory at the Travelers Championship, but a dip late in the qualifying window left playing credentials thin. More importantly, the captain placed the role of team leader above personal ambition. Bringing focus to pairing decisions, practice plans, and pre-event bonding became the priority instead of splitting attention between playing and leading.
Breaking down the picks — what each player brings
- Justin Thomas — Chosen as the emotional engine. Experience and leadership top the list; the pick is about steady hands and someone able to rally the locker room in pressure moments.
- Collin Morikawa — Picked for match-play excellence despite recent struggles. Past Ryder Cup results tipped the scales in his favor.
- Ben Griffin — The season’s breakout performer, now with multiple wins to his name. Youthful energy and a hunger that can galvanize the team.
- Cameron Young — A recent Wyndham Championship winner with a course history that projects well for Bethpage Black.
- Patrick Cantlay — Match-play savvy and prior Ryder Cup experience make him an obvious strategic selection for tight, tactical matches.
- Sam Burns — Consistent scorer and versatile player who can fit into multiple pairings and formats.
Team chemistry and prep plans
Look for the team to arrive early and spend time together at the Procore Championship and in organized practice sessions. The captain’s approach is clear: build chemistry, test pairings in low-stress environments, and get everyone used to the gritty, penal conditions Bethpage Black will serve up. Team drills, strategy talks, and plenty of course reconnaissance are on the agenda.
What Bethpage Black means for the match
Known for its unforgiving rough and demanding greens, Bethpage Black is a stern exam for any team. The course rewards strategic thinking, power, and patience. The captain’s selections reflect a desire for players who can manage adversity, apply match-play tactics, and grind when shots don’t go their way.
Historical context and pressure
Team USA has managed only three wins in the last 11 Ryder Cups, making every home event a pressure cooker. Recent home wins have come by comfortable margins, but this edition is shaping into a tight contest on a course that levels the playing field. The captain acknowledged the stress of finalizing picks but expressed relief in finishing the process and narrowing focus to leadership duties.
Looking ahead
The roster is set, the captain is committed to the sidelines, and the stage is set for September. Fans should expect intense preparation, deliberate pairing choices, and a captain who will devote himself to motivating, organizing, and tactical decision-making. For the players, the next months are about sharpening form, bonding as a unit, and getting mentally ready for one of golf’s most electric team events.
FAQ — Quick Answers for Fans
Who is captaining Team USA?
The named captain will lead the team at Bethpage Black and has chosen not to play, focusing instead on leadership duties.
When and where is the Ryder Cup?
The event runs from September 26-28 at Bethpage Black.
Who made the team?
Twelve players: six qualified automatically and six selected by the captain. The final roster includes a mix of established stars and rising talents.
Will the captain ever play in future Ryder Cups?
The captain indicated hope for future opportunities as a player, but for this edition the priority is captaincy and team success.
How will the team prepare?
Preparation includes competing together at the Procore Championship, practice sessions at Bethpage Black, pairing experiments, and team-building activities.
Quick Reference Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Ryder Cup |
| Dates | September 26-28 |
| Venue | Bethpage Black, New York |
| Captain | Team USA captain (will not play) |
| Automatic qualifiers | Scottie Scheffler; J.J. Spaun; Xander Schauffele; Bryson DeChambeau; Russell Henley; Harris English |
| Captain’s picks | Justin Thomas; Collin Morikawa; Ben Griffin; Cameron Young; Patrick Cantlay; Sam Burns |
| Key prep event | Procore Championship for team bonding and practice |
| Course notes | Demanding setup, penal rough, strategic shotmaking prized |
Bottom line: The captain has chosen leadership over playing, a full roster is locked in, and Team USA heads into a high-stakes Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black with a blend of firepower, experience, and fresh legs. Expect fireworks, strategic pairings, and plenty of drama come late September.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tommy Fleetwood Claims First PGA Tour Win at East Lake
Masters Changes Qualification Process for Upcoming Tournaments
Big Moves and Quiet Shifts at the PGA Tour
Robert MacIntyre Joins Team Europe for the Ryder Cup
Saint Joseph’s College Men’s Golf Team Reveals Fall Schedule
FM Championship Returns to Massachusetts with High Stakes
Local Golf Scene Kicks Off with Tri-Match Action
Ryder Cup Team Set for Bethpage Black
Arman Newton Excels on the Golf Course in National Tournaments
Additional Resources
- The Golfing Gazette: Justin Thomas Texts to Keegan Bradley
- Golf Digest: Inside Bethpage Aon Guide to 2025 Ryder Cup
- AP News: Keegan Bradley Names Captain’s Picks for Ryder Cup
- Sky Sports: Keegan Bradley’s Decision Not to Play at Ryder Cup
- The Independent: Luke Donald’s Captain’s Picks for Ryder Cup
- Wikipedia: Ryder Cup
- Google Search: Ryder Cup 2025
- Google Scholar: Ryder Cup History
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ryder Cup
- Google News: Ryder Cup 2025
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