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Bradley Nears Self-Pick Deadline as Teammates Back Role and McIlroy Questions Feasibility

Sitting tenth with two events remaining, the U.S. captain remains undecided about including himself among his six picks before the Tour Championship.

Keegan Bradley and Scottie Scheffler of the U.S. Team speak to the media following Thursday's Four-ball matches on day one of the 2024 Presidents Cup at The Royal Montreal Golf Club on September 26, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Rory McIlroy of Team Europe looks across the fifth hole during the Saturday morning foursomes matches of the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf Club on September 30, 2023 in Rome, Italy.
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 17: Rickie Fowler of the United States reacts on the 13th green during the second round of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club on May 17, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Bradley occupies 10th place in U.S. Ryder Cup standings with the BMW Championship and Tour Championship left to secure an automatic berth.
  • Patrick Cantlay, Rickie Fowler and Scottie Scheffler publicly endorsed Bradley’s inclusion as a playing captain, with Scheffler saying his leadership has exceeded expectations.
  • Rory McIlroy reasoned that modern Ryder Cup commitments—from media duties to strategic meetings—make combining captaincy and play impractical.
  • A July agreement permits a vice-captain to advise on course while the captain competes, but off-course responsibilities and lineup flexibility remain unresolved.
  • Bradley’s final call on self-selection hinges on his performance in the remaining events and the six captain’s picks announced after the Tour Championship.