Keegan Bradley, captain of the U.S. Ryder Cup team, has assured that Bryson DeChambeau will be on the roster for the competition at Bethpage Black this September, regardless of his standing in the points race. This confirmation came after The Open Championship concluded, with DeChambeau positioned fifth in the points rankings, though Bradley plans to reserve a spot for him no matter what.
DeChambeau’s Contributions Highlighted by Ryder Cup Captain
In a message to Sports Illustrated, Bradley emphasized DeChambeau’s vital role on the team, stating,
“Bryson is going to be a very important piece to us winning the Ryder Cup,”
and praising his energy, passion, and skill, adding,
“He brings so much. He brings energy, passion but most importantly, he’s one of the best players on the planet.”
These comments underline the confidence Bradley has in DeChambeau’s impact throughout the competition.
Current Rankings and Selection Process for the U.S. Squad
DeChambeau, who has won the U.S. Open twice and currently holds the 15th position in the Official World Golf Ranking, stood fifth in the Ryder Cup points standings heading into The Open at Royal Portrush. Bradley will automatically qualify the top six players based on points, while he reserves the right to select six additional players to complete the team for the event in Farmingdale, New York.
DeChambeau’s Perspective and Emotional Connection to the Team
Finishing tied for tenth at The Open with a score of nine-under-par, DeChambeau departed Northern Ireland contemplating his inclusion on the U.S. team. He expressed eagerness to energize the crowd and support his teammates, saying,
“I hope I can bring a lot of energy and a tsunami of a crowd that’s going to be rooting for Team USA,”
reflecting his commitment to the event’s atmosphere and team spirit.
When asked about his interactions with Bradley, DeChambeau showed emotion, recounting,
“I talked with him briefly, and then he put something in our lockers that was pretty inspirational,”
describing the note as a personal and motivating message. Bradley sent individualized notes to players ranked in the top 15 of the points list to encourage them.
DeChambeau conveyed the significance of this gesture, stating,
“This year’s no joke. We’re tired of it. We’re tired of losing,”
demonstrating the team’s preparedness and resolve to reclaim the Ryder Cup trophy from Team Europe, which has won five of the last seven competitions since 2010 and is the current defending champion.
Implications for Team USA and the Ryder Cup Competition
With Europe’s recent dominance in the Ryder Cup, the U.S. team is under pressure to perform strongly on home soil. Bradley’s decision to secure Bryson DeChambeau’s participation highlights a strategic move to combine talent with leadership and enthusiasm. As the event approaches, the U.S. squad’s finalized roster will be closely watched by golf fans, with many hoping for a resurgence fueled by determination and resilience.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Keegan Bradley have 27 on his shoes?
A. Bradley’s wife, Jillian, has an uncle named Carlton Fisk. The golfer is paying tribute to this Red Sox legend by wearing shoes with “27” and “Uncle Pudge” on them.
Q. Did Keegan Bradley get snubbed?
A. Team USA did not choose Keegan Bradley for their Ryder Cup team.
Q. What brand does Keegan Bradley wear?
A. Bradley’s clothing sponsor for the 2024 PGA Season is Flag & Anthem.
Q. Why did Keegan Bradley get a 2 shot penalty?
A. Keegan Bradley received a two-stroke penalty on Saturday during the Players Championship due to a seldom-called rule violation. While on the 16th green at TPC Sawgrass, he marked his ball. After marking it, the ball shifted from its spot. However, Bradley played it from the marked position instead of the new location.