As we build towards the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in a few weeks’ time, excitement is now increasing as golf fans await what could be the spiciest affair in a while.
With Europe so dominant in Rome two years ago, there is a feeling among the Americans that this is very much the time for revenge.
Add to that what should be a fierce atmosphere in New York and Keegan Bradley’s debut as captain, and we could well be in for a blockbuster display of golf.
Of course, the full 12 are now in for each team, with both Bradley and Luke Donald selecting their six captains picks in recent weeks.
As we know, those captains picks can be just as vital as the six who qualify automatically and looking at the 12 players who have got the nod from their skipper, there are definitely some match winners in there.
The Ryder Cup picks who could be the difference for Team USA and Team Europe
With so much talent across both teams, we could well see fireworks in certain matches as fans look forward to showdowns like Rory McIlroy v Scottie Scheffler and more.
But outside of the top two players, there are 12 captains picks who will be keen to make their mark.
Here, we look at three captains picks who could surprise everyone by being the star of the show.
Jon Rahm (Europe)
Things might have been different for Jon Rahm this year due to his status on LIV Golf and the fact he only got just over 500 qualification points but there was no way Luke Donald was leaving him out.
The Spaniard has been sensational on LIV this year and remains one of the very best players in the world.
In Rome in 2023, Rahm went head to head with Scottie Scheffler in the singles in one of the more memorable battles of recent years.
Rahm’s experience, quality, and big-game mentality make him an obvious choice in this list and if Rahm plays well, Team Europe may well be victorious again.
Ben Griffin (USA)
If you’re looking for an American who has been given a pick who oozes self confidence, then we’d need not look any further than Ben Griffin.
After a remarkable year in 2025, Griffin has done enough to be on Keegan Bradley’s team and his fearlessness is going to be a key factor for the Americans.
Griffin has already spoken of his desire to win a major in 2026 and he firmly believes a good Ryder Cup will enhance those chances.
With plenty of new faces in the American camp anyway, Griffin will not feel like the odd one out and if he starts well, we can expect him to really kick on and bring home big points for Team USA.
Ludvig Aberg (Europe)
The last time out, Ludvig Aberg was something of a surprise pick but he proved how good he was, especially when he teamed up with Viktor Hovland to annihilate Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka in record-breaking fashion.
Now, though, the idea of Aberg not being on this team was one many couldn’t even comprehend.
Despite the wins drying up a bit, the Swedish star remains one of the best players in the world and his swing is effortless and satisfying.
As for his cool temperament, that will also serve him well at Bethpage.
Nothing fazes Aberg and just like with Jon Rahm, Europe have a player in their picks who everyone on the USA side of things would take.
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