Over the weekend, former President Donald Trump voiced his desire for Keegan Bradley to take on the role of Team USA captain for the upcoming Ryder Cup. However, that didn’t happen as Bradley opted not to include himself in a 12-man lineup, despite being ranked 11th among American players.
Instead, Bradley selected Justin Thomas, Colin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay, and Sam Burns to represent the United States.
Bradley remarked that it had been “decided a while ago” that he wouldn’t participate, and even Trump’s backing didn’t sway his decision. Still, he appreciated the former president’s support, especially at just 39 years old. “It was surreal and wonderful to have that kind of backing,” he said. “I hope I won’t disappoint him and I look forward to seeing him at the Ryder Cup.”
Trump announced his intent to attend the tournament’s first day and recalled a visit he made to Jersey City during the 2017 Presidents Cup. Reflecting on the situation, Bradley joked, “You start to wonder how I got to this point in my life. But it was an honor to have him say that.”
Though Rory McIlroy suggested it might not be impossible for a player to captain the team, it hasn’t happened since Arnold Palmer did so in 1963. When asked about proving McIlroy wrong, Bradley seemed to agree but also had his own thoughts. “I’m not concerned with what others say. It’s our team that matters. Who knows how he knows it’s impossible or if it is?”
He expressed a wish that he could consult Palmer for advice during this unique circumstance, adding that the Ryder Cup today is very different from the past. “It’s a whole different situation now. The decision I made was what I thought was best.”
The Ryder Cup is set to begin on September 26, with players like Scotty Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Russell Henley, and Bryson DeChambeau automatically qualified. It looks like there’s a lot to anticipate in the coming days.
