,Bethpage Black, August 25, 2025
News Summary
The announcement of six captain’s picks for the U.S. Ryder Cup team is generating buzz and tension ahead of the 11am EDT reveal. Captain Keegan Bradley faces tough decisions, with the likelihood of surprise picks looming. Top contenders like Justin Thomas and Patrick Cantlay are under consideration along with seasoned players for their experience and leadership. The challenging venue at Bethpage Black adds another layer to the selections, compelling Bradley to prioritize the best team composition amidst public scrutiny and personal stakes.
New York
Ryder Cup drama ramps up as captain prepares to drop bombshells
The countdown is on. US Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley is about to name his six captain’s picks at 11am EDT on Wednesday, and the build-up has that delicious mix of nerves, gossip and straight-up tension you only get in big-match golf. The talk around the course is that some players who think they have tickets punched may be left standing in the clubhouse.
Bradley has admitted that the job is a heavy one, and that letting players know they didn’t make the team will be heartbreaking for those affected. With plenty of Americans playing well right now, the decision feels especially brutal. There are whispered names and loud favorites, and Bradley has hinted there could be a few surprise wildcard picks — meaning a couple of names many expect to see may get the cold shoulder.
Who’s in the mix?
The list of contenders reads like a who’s who of current tour form and Ryder Cup experience. The players most often mentioned as captain’s-pick candidates include Justin Thomas, Ben Griffin, Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, Maverick McNealy, Collin Morikawa, and Cameron Young. There are also seasoned names being considered for their match-play chops and crowd-calm leadership, like Brian Harman, Wyndham Clark, and Jordan Spieth.
On top of that, Bradley has been in form lately, with a victory at the Travelers Championship and a tie for seventh at the Tour Championship. That has sparked chatter about whether he might pick himself as a playing captain. The talk is part curiosity, part wishful thinking from fans and part extra pressure on Bradley, who is already under the spotlight as the youngest American Ryder Cup captain since a certain legend of the game.
Strategy, pressure and the crowd factor
Bradley has stressed that his top priority is to assemble the best possible team to compete. That means balancing current form, course fit, match-play temperament and team chemistry. He’ll be discussing his short list with vice-captains after the Tour Championship, but the final call lands on his plate, and every pick is likely to be dissected.
The venue adds another layer. The Ryder Cup will be played at Bethpage Black, a course famous for its loud, energetic crowds and the kind of rugged test that rewards guts and patience. Captains often pick with the venue in mind, and Bethpage’s intensity could sway choices toward players with proven nerves under pressure.
There’s also outside noise. High-profile figures have publicly voiced opinions about the roster and even nudged at the idea of Bradley taking a playing role. That kind of attention adds heat to an already hot seat.
What’s already locked in?
The team already includes players who earned spots through qualification and consistency: Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau. Bradley’s six picks will complete the roster and set the scene for match-ups and pairings once the full team is named.
Why this is must-watch for golf fans
For watchers who love the human story as much as the scores, this is a feast. Who gets the nod, who gets snubbed, and which pick will immediately be celebrated or questioned — all of that makes the moments after 11am EDT must-see TV for golf fans. The Ryder Cup is as much about momentum, pairings and passion as it is about raw talent, and a savvy selection can swing momentum before the first tee shot.
Bottom line
Expect emotion, a few eyebrow-raisers, and some instant analysis. Bradley has a delicate balancing act — build a team that can handle the roar of Bethpage Black and match up well against Europe, while also honoring form and experience. When the clock hits 11am EDT on Wednesday, the golf world will be watching to see which names make the final cut and which ones will be left to ponder what might have been.
FAQ
When will the captain announce the six picks?
The six captain’s picks will be announced at 11am EDT on Wednesday.
How many captain’s picks are there?
There are six captain’s picks to complete the U.S. Ryder Cup team roster.
Who are the top candidates for the picks?
Leading contenders include Justin Thomas, Ben Griffin, Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, Maverick McNealy, Collin Morikawa, and Cameron Young, with experienced options like Brian Harman, Wyndham Clark, and Jordan Spieth also in consideration.
Could the captain pick himself?
The captain’s recent form has sparked speculation that he could choose to play, but that decision would be up to him and his team of vice-captains.
Where will the Ryder Cup be held and why does that matter?
The matches will be at Bethpage Black, known for heavy crowds and a tough layout, which can influence which players are best suited for the challenge.
Who is already on the team?
Players already locked in include Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau.
Quick reference table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Captain | Keegan Bradley |
| Announcement time | 11am EDT on Wednesday |
| Number of captain’s picks | Six |
| Already on team | Scottie Scheffler; J.J. Spaun; Xander Schauffele; Russell Henley; Harris English; Bryson DeChambeau |
| Venue | Bethpage Black — loud crowds, tough course |
| Top contenders | Justin Thomas; Ben Griffin; Patrick Cantlay; Sam Burns; Maverick McNealy; Collin Morikawa; Cameron Young |
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Additional Resources
- NBC Sports: Keegan Bradley Exits East Lake
- Golf.com: 2025 Ryder Cup Captain’s Picks
- CNN: Ryder Cup Trump International
- BBC Sport: Ryder Cup Articles
- USA Today: Trump Attends Ryder Cup
- Wikipedia: Ryder Cup
- Google Search: Ryder Cup 2025
- Google Scholar: Ryder Cup
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ryder Cup
- Google News: Ryder Cup
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