The 2023 Ryder Cup held in Rome, Italy, ended in a humiliating defeat for the U.S. team under captain Zach Johnson’s leadership, with much criticism aimed at his choice of Captain’s Picks. Cameron Young, a promising PGA Tour professional, openly expressed his frustration after being overlooked despite his strong form, particularly compared to Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas, who were selected instead. The debate over the Rickie Fowler Ryder Cup controversy highlights longstanding questions about favoritism in the team selection process.
Young was candid about his desire to be part of the event in an interview following an impressive third-round performance at the 2025 Wyndham Championship. He emphasized the emotional and career significance of playing at Bethpage Black, calling it one of his favorite courses given his history there.
“I think that that location is, first of all, one of my favorite golf courses in the world. I have a lot of good memories there playing the New York State Open, and I’m sure a New York crowd would be I at least hope on my side to some extent.”
— Cameron Young, PGA Tour professional
Young’s Amateur Triumphs and Rising Career Profile
Cameron Young’s ties to New York run deep. As an amateur, he made history at the 2017 New York State Open by becoming the first amateur winner of the event. He achieved this after a fierce playoff with professional Chris DeForest, finishing with a record-setting 7-under 64 in the final round at Bethpage Black. This landmark victory marked the start of a career that has since seen steady progress.
Since joining the PGA Tour, Young has built an impressive résumé, including multiple top-10 finishes during the 2025 season. His noteworthy fourth-place tie at the U.S. Open and strong standing at the Wyndham Championship demonstrate his ongoing development as a contender.
Young’s Determination to Make the Next Ryder Cup Team
Reflecting on his goals and mindset for the Ryder Cup, Young was clear about his intentions to seize any opportunity to join Team U.S. Again, he detailed how missing the team in 2023, despite ranking ninth on the points list, was a painful setback that fuels his current efforts.
“That’s been a goal this whole year. I’m trying to just look at that to just take all the small stuff that happens day to day as it comes with — in the back of my mind, trying to picture myself on that team.”
— Cameron Young, PGA Tour professional
Young currently holds the lead going into the final round of the Wyndham Championship, having set a new tournament record for the best opening 54-hole score of 190, breaking a previous mark set by Carl Pettersson in 2008. Sharing this remarkable score with Scottie Scheffler, Young’s strong performance places him well on track for a Ryder Cup qualification boost.
“At 190, Cameron Young sets a personal-best opening 54-hole score (previous: 197, two times) and breaks the Wyndham Championship opening 54-hole record (previous: 191/Carl Pettersson/2008/won).Young equals the lowest 54-hole score of the season (190: Scottie Scheffler/CJ CUP…”
— PGA TOUR Communications
Comparing Ryder Cup Performances and Selection Controversies
Between 2021 and 2023, Young was in exceptional form, posting 12 top-10 finishes, including six runner-up spots. Notable highlights included a solo second place at The Open 2022, third at the PGA Championship 2022, and strong showings in the Masters and The Open in 2023. Despite this, Zach Johnson’s 2023 Captain’s Picks controversially favored Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas, who were significantly behind Young in team points.
Young’s exclusion alongside Keegan Bradley, who was similarly overlooked, sparked debate among fans and experts regarding the fairness and criteria for Captain’s Picks. Both were widely expected to join the squad, yet Johnson instead selected Brooks Koepka and Justin Thomas. The decision proved costly, as the U.S. team suffered a lopsided 16½ to 11½ loss.
Questions Raised Over Leadership Choices and Team Impact
Critics have questioned whether Johnson’s preferential treatment of Fowler and Thomas undermined the team’s strength. Fowler’s performance was notably disappointing, losing both his matches and even conceding a key putt to England’s Tommy Fleetwood, which directly contributed to the European team’s gaining an advantage in the singles contests.
The exclusion of higher-performing players like Young fueled suspicion that personal biases or reputation may have influenced team selections rather than current form and potential.
Current Outlook for Young and Possible Ryder Cup Drama Ahead
As of 2025, Young’s Ryder Cup prospects are less secure than in 2023, currently positioned 19th on the points list. However, a victory at Greensboro could improve his ranking considerably, nudging him closer to a top-15 spot. With FedEx Cup playoffs approaching and captain Keegan Bradley expected to make the final selections, speculation remains about whether past grievances and sympathies might influence the forthcoming choices.
The rivalry and tension observed in prior selection cycles suggest potential drama within the locker room, especially given Bradley’s own ambitions and history with the team. The unfolding weeks will be crucial for Young as he aims to solidify his place through consistent performance and perseverance.