Jordan Spieth‘s path to the US Ryder Cup team has encountered a major setback following his elimination from the FedEx Cup Playoffs. With no further opportunities to prove himself before captain Keegan Bradley’s selection of six wildcards for the Bethpage Black event, Spieth’s chances hinge on whether his recent performance is deemed sufficient.
The Texan, a three-time major champion and a consistent Ryder Cup participant over the last five editions, has been struggling with his form and wrist injury. His current world ranking at 52nd and 28th place in the US Ryder Cup standings place him on the fringe, making a guaranteed wildcard selection unlikely, especially as other contenders still have two weeks remaining in the FedEx Cup Playoffs to strengthen their bids.
Evaluating Spieth’s Current Form and Ryder Cup History
Spieth’s Ryder Cup performance record has seen significant changes. While he featured consistently in the last five matches, he has been without a victory since April 2022 and has delivered underwhelming results in recent matches. From 2014 to 2018, he maintained a winning percentage of 50% or higher during Ryder Cup play. However, in his subsequent eight matches, he secured only one win, with three draws and four losses, falling short of justifying his prior wildcard selections.
Recent tournaments reflect a downturn as well. Spieth finished 40th at The Open, tied 31st at the Wyndham Championship, and tied 38th at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, closing the season 54th in the FedEx Cup standings and failing again to reach the BMW Championship. His fluctuating performance leaves questions about whether he can contribute effectively to the US team at Bethpage Black.
Keegan Bradley’s Selection Dilemma and Wildcard Considerations
The situation now rests with US captain Keegan Bradley, who must weigh statistics, current form, and team chemistry when choosing his wildcard picks. Several highly ranked players are ahead of Spieth in the standings, including Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Cameron Young, Maverick McNealy, Ben Griffin, and Patrick Cantlay, making it a competitive environment for those final slots.
Spieth’s recent comments signal hope, but acknowledge the challenge ahead:
I think if I can make it to the Tour Championship, that means that I’ve played well in the Playoffs, in big events, and it may come down to if Keegan picks himself or not and opens up a spot,
he said at The Open last month. He also stated,
Do I think I’m that right this second? No. But do I think I can be that by three weeks’ time? Yeah.
Despite his confidence, Spieth’s lack of opportunities to improve his standing complicates Bradley’s decision, especially with players on the bubble who can still change the dynamic with strong finishes.
Assessing the Pros and Cons of Selecting Spieth
Opinions among experts are divided on whether Spieth deserves a place on the Ryder Cup team this year. On one hand, his experience and historic success make him a valuable asset. His strong partnership with Justin Thomas, likely a first wildcard choice, and his natural skill—particularly his power off the tee and putting ability—are positives.
On the other hand, his inconsistent long game in 2024 and his position far down the US standings indicate a player struggling to find form. Some argue that other Americans present more reliable options, given their current momentum and rankings. His absence in the 2023 Presidents Cup due to injury did not significantly impact the team, suggesting the US can perform without him if necessary.
One analyst noted,
I think Jordan Spieth will make the US Ryder Cup team, but I’m not sure he should. Let’s be honest, he’s a shadow of the player he once was, and finishing outside the top 50 in the FedExCup with so many good players on LIV shows just how far he’s fallen.
While recognizing Spieth’s statistical solidity in some areas, the writer points out,
If he’s picked, it’ll be because of his past.
A Competitive Field Limits Spieth’s Wildcard Prospects
The competition for the six wildcard spots is fierce. Players like Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Cameron Young, Maverick McNealy, Ben Griffin, Patrick Cantlay, Sam Burns, Akshay Bhatia, Andrew Novak, Brian Harman, Wyndham Clark, and Lucas Glover currently rank ahead of Spieth in the US Ryder Cup standings. Many are in peak form and capable of influencing team dynamics positively, which may work against Spieth’s selection chances.
The wildcard selection is expected to favor recent winners and those demonstrating consistent top-five finishes. Given this context, it appears unlikely that Spieth will be picked over other contenders if they post strong results in the coming weeks. Analysts suggest,
I would have Thomas, Morikawa, McNealy, Cantlay, Burns and Griffin or Bhatia ahead of him right now for the six wildcard spots.
This leaves Spieth’s place on the team uncertain and may lead to his exclusion.
Looking Ahead: What the Ryder Cup Selection Means for Spieth and Team USA
The final decision on Jordan Spieth’s Ryder Cup place will highlight the balance between past accomplishments and present form that US captain Keegan Bradley must manage. For Spieth, missing out would mark a significant moment in the latter stages of his career, reflecting ongoing challenges with his game and fitness.
For Team USA, the choice will set the tone for a group aiming to regain Ryder Cup dominance at Bethpage Black. Selecting the right combination of veterans and in-form players is crucial for success in one of golf’s most prestigious team competitions.
The coming weeks will reveal if Spieth can influence the decision through late-season performances or whether his Ryder Cup tenure concludes with the 2023 team announcement. As the deadline approaches, all eyes remain on Keegan Bradley’s picks and the competitive playoff performances shaping the final roster.