We can’t wait for the next edition in Rome in 2023, and you shouldn’t either! Stacey Keegan Bradley will make his six captain’s picks on Wednesday. As for the U.S. team, five players have already earned spots. Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley and Harris English have each made it on points. In other words, there’s no surprise and perhaps misapplication in how Bryson DeChambeau has got himself to captain of his LIV Golf League squad. Of course, Bradley’s hard decisions will significantly impact the U.S. team’s fortunes at Bethpage. He will be up against tough competition and question marks as far as other players’ recent play.
Bradley’s decisions are made as some of those players seeking a place continue to face intense criticism. Justin Thomas has been the American star, with a scintillating 17-7-4 in Ryder/Presidents Cup play. His all-around performance solidifies him as the team’s most important player. His unique experience will be an asset to the entire team. At the same time, players such as Patrick Cantlay and Collin Morikawa put themselves in difficulty that might influence Bradley’s picks.
The Qualified Team Members
The U.S. Ryder Cup team stands to benefit from a number of hot golfers who have already punched their tickets via points. Scheffler, Spaun, Schauffele, Henley and English all produced strong performances throughout the season. They will arrive at the tournament with great technical ability and considerable expertise.
Bryson DeChambeau’s unique position as the LIV Golf League captain adds another layer to the U.S. team’s dynamics. His qualification is a testament to the ever-newer world of professional golf. Today, players from all tours compete on the same stage.
These players come together with a shared goal to reclaim the Ryder Cup. Their combined history and same impressive skills will be deeply important to the U.S. team’s performance in battle against Europe.
Contenders on the Bubble
Among those favoured to be chosen are the likes of Patrick Cantlay and Collin Morikawa. Cantlay is 15th in the Ryder Cup points standings. He hasn’t secured a win on tour in more than three years. His recent performance has seen him drop to 23rd in the Official World Golf Ranking, raising questions about his form and readiness.
Regardless, Cantlay still finished with five top-10 finishes and ten top-25 finishes on the season. His consistency might still see him come in as a captain’s pick, if Bradley is convinced he can step up when it matters most.
Morikawa, a two-time major champion, has a stellar 10-5-1 record in both the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. He’s experienced some new pitfalls on the course. He hasn’t won in almost two years and admitted following the Tour Championship that his game isn’t quite there.
“It’s definitely been in the back of my head,” – Collin Morikawa
Both players have all-star credentials. The risks These moves could backfire on Bradley, as he has to judge their future contributions based on their past efforts.
Rising Stars and Anxious Contenders
Perhaps the most interesting name in the field is Ben Griffin, who recently made headlines for his reaction to not making the elimination process. Though his sharp success this season has put him in the running at least on the surface, doubt still hangs in the air.
“I wouldn’t say stressful because I feel like I’m too blessed to be stressed. But definitely anxious just to see if I earned a spot on that team or not or if Keegan believes in me.” – Ben Griffin
Griffin’s confidence is further reflected through his remarkable accomplishments this season. Along the way, he tied for fourth at the BMW Championship and placed seventh at the Tour Championship. He knows that he can face the pressure of those grand moments and is looking forward to being a representative for his country.
“I know I’ve been able to handle some big moments this season. I know I’ll be comfortable on that stage at Bethpage,” – Ben Griffin
Unlike Griffin’s optimistic future, a more ominous present has set in as Justin Thomas recently lamented the long road he traveled to arrive at these announcements. He understands the stakes involved.
“I had three weeks to sweat it out, really. I knew I needed a lot of luck,” – Justin Thomas
His confidence seems to have been re-energized in recent weeks, something that should strengthen his case for a third captain’s pick.
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