Keegan Bradley has been unexpectedly named the US Ryder Cup captain for next year’s event at Bethpage Black in New York, after Tiger Woods declined the position.
The PGA of America announced Bradley’s appointment on Monday evening, revealing that Woods, previously the top candidate after the American team’s loss in Rome last year, was no longer in contention.
Bradley’s previous Ryder Cup experience, his strong relationships, and his passion for the event are expected to be valuable assets in leading the US team over the next year and a half. The PGA of America expressed confidence that Bradley’s leadership would bring the same confidence and determination that has characterized his career to the 2025 US Ryder Cup team.
A former PGA champion, Bradley played in two Ryder Cups, debuting in 2012 at Medinah and then competing in 2014 at Gleneagles, where he faced Jamie Donaldson in the final-day singles, which secured Europe’s victory.
“I am incredibly honored to accept this opportunity,” Bradley said, expressing gratitude to the PGA of America Ryder Cup committee for their trust. He looks forward to the journey to Bethpage Black and emphasized his passion for the Ryder Cup, which he regards as the greatest team event in golf. He anticipates a special competition at the iconic course with its rich history and enthusiastic spectators.
Seth Waugh, the CEO of the organization, had been in discussions with Woods about the captaincy role before Woods unexpectedly announced he would not continue after his contract ended last month. The PGA of America president, John Lindert, is set to make the official announcement at a press conference at the NASDAQ building in New York.
Stewart Cink, speaking at The Renaissance Club in East Lothian during the Genesis Scottish Open, where he is competing, expressed surprise that Woods, a 15-time major winner, had declined the role. Cink acknowledged that Woods had indicated his inability to fully commit to the role due to his significant involvement in discussions about the future of golf in his role as a player director on the PGA Tour policy board.
Cink, the 2009 Open champion, added that it wasn’t surprising Woods turned down the captaincy, given his busy schedule with the PGA Tour and his ongoing recovery from injuries. Woods’ commitment to the board position and his focus on his health likely influenced his decision to decline the role.