Keegan Bradley was named US Ryder Cup captain last year after Tiger Woods turned down the role

Keegan Bradley Faces Ryder Cup Dilemma Amid Open Charge

Keegan Bradley is one of the hottest names in golf right now – and not just for his performance on the course.

As the 2025 Ryder Cup captain for Team USA, Bradley faces an unusual conundrum: should he pick himself as a wildcard if he fails to qualify automatically?

Bradley’s Captaincy Under the Spotlight

The 39-year-old has been in outstanding form this year with five top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour, including victory at the Travelers Championship.

Bradley’s stellar play continued at the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, where he shot a three-under 68 on Friday to move into Claret Jug contention.

Yet his Ryder Cup role complicates matters. Only six Americans will automatically qualify for the squad competing at Bethpage Black in September, while six more will be chosen as captain’s picks.

“If I was sitting here without being captain, then making this team would be my number one goal – that doesn’t change with me being captain,” Bradley told RyderCup.com.

He added: “If I finish outside the top six and I feel like I can help the team, I’ll consider playing. But I don’t have an answer right now.”

Can Bradley Balance Playing and Leading?

Bradley’s situation echoes golf legend Arnold Palmer, the last playing Ryder Cup captain for the US in 1963.

His recent performances suggest he’s worthy of a spot. However, critics argue the US Ryder Cup setup lacks the meticulous planning of Europe under captain Luke Donald, leading to fears of an American collapse on home soil.

Bradley himself admits juggling roles has helped: