Keegan Bradley chose not to include himself as a player in the six Ryder Cup 2025 wildcard choices and speculated that he might be the team captain of the game – Arnold Palmer last played in 1963.
Among the draft picks confirmed by Bradley were late-season bolted Cameron Young, who ranked 14th in the U.S. rankings, winning his Maiden Ryder Cup appearance.
Other options include Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin, Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns.
Bradley’s decision came a season later, a victory at the Travelers Championship, during which he firmly established himself among the top American golfers.
His choice to be a captain only sparked discussion in the golf world, with many pointing out that its focus allowed him to bring in leadership and strategy.
President Donald Trump publicly recognized Bradley’s Captain and will attend Bethpage Black, while former captain Tom Watson suggested opposing the pressure to separate duties as a match captain.
Bradley has confirmed six automatic qualifiers – Scottie Scheffler, JJ Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English and Bryson DeChambeau – Bradley has now confirmed his six draft picks.
Bradley’s press conference marks one of the most anticipated Ryder Cup announcements in years.
With Bethpage’s challenging setup and enthusiastic home crowd, his choices are expected to shape the tone and strategy throughout the week.
Luke Donald will reveal his European team draft pick on Monday, September 1, 2pm (9am ET).
Keegan Bradley’s Six-Team US Ryder Cup Wild Card
(From the BMW Championship, the US team ranked correctly)
1. Justin Thomas
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 7
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 4 (2018, 2021, 2023, 2025)
Justin Thomas is a multiple-time PGA Tour champion and the key to the US Ryder Cup rival.
He won seventh place in 2025 in the legacy of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), bringing experience and consistency to the team, previously contributed in 2018, 2021 and 2023, combining skills with strategic game awareness.
2. CollinMorikawa
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 8
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 3 (2021, 2023, 2025)
Collin Morikawa quickly established himself as one of the world’s top golfers, having achieved two major victories.
His three Ryder Cup appearances ranked eighth in 2025, including a major score from Team USA.
Known for precise iron play and calm under pressure, he is a major asset in singles and four-ball games.
3. Ben Griffin
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 9
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 1 (2025)
Ben Griffin won two wins after a strong season and finished in the top ten U.S. rankings, winning his Ryder Cup debut in 2025.
As a first-time participant, Griffin brings youthful energy and emerging talents, adding solid ball hitting and competitive firepower to support the team’s overall strategy.
4. Cameron Young
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 14
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 1 (2025)
Cameron Young made his first appearance in 2025 and ranked 14th in the team. Young is recognized for his steady game and mental resilience, which provides the depth for Team USA.
He won the 2025 Wyndham Championship, and the form will be a factor in his calling.
His addition highlights emerging talents who can perform in a high-pressure competition environment.
5. Patrick Cantlay
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 15
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 3 (2021, 2023, 2025)
Patrick Cantlay ranked 15th in 2025, earning his third Ryder Cup. Cantlay combines consistent scoring and calm under pressure, making him a reliable anchor for Team America.
His previous appearances in 2021 and 2023 show his ability to provide key points in team and singles formats.
6. Sam Burning
- Team USA 2025 ranking: 16
- The appearance of the Ryder Cup: 2 (2023, 2025)
Sam Burns ranked 16th in 2025, with his second Ryder Cup appearing.
Since its debut in 2023, Burns has shown strong all-round competition and competitive resilience.
His inclusion provides strategic flexibility and scoring potential, enhancing the depth and ability of Team USA in key game moments.
Read more: Why Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson can’t play in America’s greatest Ryder Cup team
