Keegan Bradley has not waited around when it comes to making one of his first important decisions since being named as the US Ryder Cup captain for 2025.
The golfing world was left stunned when it emerged that Keegan Bradley was set to be named as Zach Johnson’s successor for Bethpage Black. Even when Tiger Woods turned down the role, few would have imagined that the 38-year-old would get the pick.
It is certainly a gamble from the PGA of America, with someone such as Stewart Cink probably being a move obvious choice. They could have also turned to Steve Stricker to see if he could repeat the magic of Whistling Straits four years on.
Bradley is very much in contention to make the Presidents Cup team this year, and has just fallen outside of the top 20 in the world rankings, so he is someone who could potentially qualify for the team in New York.
Keegan Bradley picks one of his vice-captains for the Ryder Cup
Of course, it has become incredibly rare for away teams to win the Ryder Cup, with Medinah the only time since the millennium the visitors have taken the Samuel Ryder Trophy back across the Atlantic with them, so it is potentially a good opportunity for Bradley – and it may influence how their future captains are picked.
Webb Simpson was considered for the role before Bradley was given the job, but the 2012 US Open champion will be involved next year, with Simpson now named as one of Bradley’s vice-captains.
Simpson’s selection is not particularly surprising, given that he is not a stranger to leadership roles, having been on the PGA Tour policy board. He has also played in three Ryder Cups. Unfortunately for the Americans, neither Simpson or Bradley have actually won a Ryder Cup as a player.
American fans pleased with decision
Nevertheless, plenty of fans on social media appear to be happy with the choice, believing that Simpson is ideal for the vice-captaincy role…
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