Despite a somewhat uninspiring start to 2025 for many potential key members of the US Ryder Cup team, their captain, Keegan Bradley, has been making waves with his own performance. Ever since the 2011 PGA Champion took the reins as the US Ryder Cup captain, speculation escalated over whether he could pull double duty and serve as both a captain and a player. Considering his recent form, the conjecture doesn’t seem too far-fetched.
Bradley has been exhibiting some of his best golf in over a decade. His triumph at last year’s BMW Championship and four top 15 finishes on the PGA Tour this year underscore his impressive form. A shining moment came during the Arnold Palmer Invitational where he posted an eight-under-par final round, moving up to fifth place at Bay Hill. His front nine record-breaking performance, making the turn in just 29 on Sunday, further exemplified his prowess.
Currently, Bradley is not within the top 12 in the Ryder Cup standings. However, his continuous high-caliber performance could change his ranking in the coming months. While the US team supporters would love to see Bradley play, the team wouldn’t want to jeopardize their winning chances at Bethpage with any decision. As such, it could lead to some difficult conversations if Bradley were to make the team as a player.
Smylie Kaufman, speaking on The Smylie Show after his performance at Bay Hill, expressed his desire to see Bradley in both roles if given the opportunity. Kaufman praised Bradley’s current form and his potential to motivate others, not just with his words but with his golfing skills as well. He further stated that even if Bradley only participates in two matches, it would be enough for him. He simply wants to see Bradley play and would love to see a playing-captain.
However, Bradley’s tenure as captain hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. He stirred some controversy during his pep talk to the US Presidents Cup team from Royal Montreal last year, which was characterized by strong language. Unaware that he was being filmed, Bradley later insisted that his comments wouldn’t motivate the European team.
When questioned if his commentary could incite the opposition, Bradley responded that the Europeans didn’t need any additional motivation. He acknowledged their skill and the significance of the Ryder Cup to them, adding that they already show their best golf during the Ryder Cup and are motivated enough to beat the US team.
While Bradley’s language may not be typical of golfers, such moments add a spark to the game, reminiscent of Rory McIlroy’s infamous car park incident at Marco Simone in 2023. These instances highlight the intense passion players and captains have for the Ryder Cup, proving that no one needs to justify their emotions when it comes to this special event.
