Keegan Bradley has finalized his six captain’s picks for the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup team—and despite months of speculation, his own name isn’t among them.
Since being named U.S. captain last summer, the possibility of Bradley serving as the first playing captain since 1963 had been a constant talking point. His strong form in 2025, including a win at the Travelers Championship and a spot on last year’s Presidents Cup team, only fueled expectations that he might juggle both roles at Bethpage Black.
Speaking Wednesday from PGA of America headquarters, Bradley admitted the decision wasn’t easy.
“This was a really tough decision,” Bradley said. “There was a point earlier this year where I thought it might happen, but these guys stepped up in a big way and earned their spots. I’m really happy with the team we’ve assembled.”
Bradley, currently ranked No. 11 in the world, also finished inside the top 12 of the Ryder Cup points standings. But as the summer went on, players like Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, and Cam Young surged ahead, while Bradley’s form leveled off.
Ultimately, Bradley said the responsibilities of leading the U.S. squad outweighed the prospect of competing himself.
“I want to be the best captain I can be,” he explained. “I’m 100 percent certain this is the right choice.”
Bradley emphasized that his five vice captains—Jim Furyk, Kevin Kisner, Webb Simpson, Brandt Snedeker, and Gary Woodland—have given him the support structure to focus fully on strategy and leadership.
While he hinted during last week’s Tour Championship that a playing role was still possible, Bradley confirmed Wednesday that the decision “was made a while ago.”
The European side will announce its six captain’s picks next week.
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