Keegan Bradley leaves himself out and finalizes U.S. Ryder Cup team

On August 27, 2025, in Frisco, Texas, U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley announced his six captain’s picks and made a surprising choice; he left himself off the team. Ranked from September 26–28, 2025, No.

11 in the world, Bradley decided not to serve as player-captain at the upcoming Ryder Cup in Bethpage Black, New York. Instead, he invited six automatic qualifiers, including Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, plus Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay, and Sam Burns.

Keegan Bradley says leaving himself out was “heartbreaking”

At the PGA of America headquarters, Bradley told reporters his decision was not easy: “It broke my heart not to play, but ultimately it’s my job to do what’s best for the team.” Bradley confirmed he had made up his mind “a while ago,” even though he kept the possibility open until the last week.This move means Bradley will not be the first U.S. playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963. Instead, he made room for players who earned their spots through form and results.

Justin Thomas, called “the heartbeat of our team” by Bradley, was seen as a must-pick. Collin Morikawa also got in despite a mixed season, while Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns were chosen for chemistry with teammates like Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler.

By not selecting himself, Bradley showed he values the bigger picture. Many expected him to choose himself after a strong year, but he explained, “All these guys stepped up in a major way and played their way onto this team”.

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Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay, and Sam Burns strengthen U.S. team

The picks completed the 12-man U.S. team for the Ryder Cup. Justin Thomas will play his fourth Cup, while Collin Morikawa and Patrick Cantlay return for their third. Three players, Ben Griffin, Cameron Young, and Sam Burns, will make their debuts. Griffin earned attention with two PGA Tour wins this year and steady play at the majors. Young broke through at the Wyndham Championship in August, while Burns has been a consistent partner for Scheffler.Automatic qualifiers Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau are among the complete team as well. Europe will be met by this group at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York. Bradley’s approach has already drawn praise from players like Thomas, who said the captain’s communication has been “transparent and refreshing.”