As the 2025 Ryder Cup draws near, excitement builds, especially for the U.S. team looking to redeem their previous loss. The last Ryder Cup, a crushing 16.5-11.5 defeat for the USA, left Zach Johnson and his squad licking their wounds. However, Keegan Bradley, the 38-year-old veteran, is determined to turn things around for the team on home ground at the prestigious Bethpage in New York.
Bradley, who has a chance of qualifying himself, will likely be commanding a formidable lineup that includes the likes of Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele. However, the selection process for the United States team varies from its European counterpart, with qualifications based on prize money rather than a performance-based point system.
To elaborate, in 2024, one point was allocated for every $1,000 earned in prize money at the four major championships and The Players, provided the player made the cut. This rule applies to all PGA Tour events in 2025, barring the majors, from the start of the year until the BMW Championship’s conclusion on August 17. This year, the majors will accrue 1.5 points per $1k. This system might favor players with a few stellar performances over those who consistently perform well throughout the season.
So, who are the likely contenders for the USA Ryder Cup 2025 team? The current front-runners include PGA Tour regulars Scheffler and Schauffele, along with Russell Henley, who has boosted his chances with a win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Bryson DeChambeau is also on the radar, despite LIV Golf events not contributing to the qualification points – his 2024 US Open victory put him in a favorable position.
Maverick McNealy, a somewhat surprising inclusion, is currently amongst the top six. However, the 29-year-old’s prospects of maintaining his current position are questionable at best. Other notables who could ascend into the top six as the season progresses include Patrick Cantlay, Justin Thomas, and team captain Bradley himself.
As the 2025 Ryder Cup edges closer, the anticipation increases. With a blend of new and experienced talent, the U.S. team is poised to reclaim their lost glory. The upcoming season will undoubtedly be littered with fierce competition and unforgettable performances, as the stars of the PGA Tour vie for a coveted spot on the Ryder Cup team.