Phil Mickelson has officially closed the chapter on his Ryder Cup career, confirming he will not return in any capacity — including as captain — for the 2027 edition of the tournament.
The six-time major champion, now 55, addressed speculation after Ryder Cup legend Lee Westwood tagged him on social media, suggesting he could lead Team USA at Adare Manor in two years’ time. Mickelson, however, swiftly dismissed the idea.
“No rumors. My Ryder Cup involvement is over. I am happy being a spectator and rooting for Team USA,” he posted on X.
Mickelson, who has competed in 12 Ryder Cups and last played in 2018, remains active as both player and captain within LIV Golf but has made it clear that his days with the U.S. Ryder Cup team are behind him.
Pressure on Keegan Bradley
Attention now turns to the embattled 2025 U.S. captain, Keegan Bradley, who has faced heavy criticism throughout a bruising week at Bethpage Black. Team USA trailed 12–5 heading into Sunday’s singles, with Viktor Hovland’s withdrawal triggering the envelope rule and handing both teams an extra half point. Europe required just two more points to retain the trophy.
Bradley’s leadership has been questioned after he controversially paired Harris English and Collin Morikawa together twice, despite data showing it was statistically the weakest possible partnership. The duo went on to lose both matches.
The captain has also been criticized for his handling of fan behavior. The atmosphere at Bethpage turned ugly at times, with Rory McIlroy targeted by hostile taunts and personal insults. Asked about the conduct of American fans, Bradley defended the home crowd.
“I thought the fans were passionate,” Bradley said. “Their home team is getting beat badly. I wasn’t at Rome, but I heard a lot of stories that Rome was pretty violent as well. From what I’ve seen, the New York fans have been pretty good.”
Uncertain Future
With Mickelson officially stepping aside and Bradley under intense scrutiny after his debut as captain, speculation over who will lead Team USA in 2027 is already heating up. For now, though, one of America’s greatest Ryder Cup stalwarts has bowed out of the competition for good.
