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3mo ago

Rule Change Lets Bradley Become First U.S. Player-Captain Since 1963

Europe’s approval lets Bradley focus on playing as team captain with vice-captains handling on-course advice

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 08: Keegan Bradley of The United States and Luke Donald of England speak at a press conference during the Ryder Cup 2024 Year to Go Media Event at The Times Center on October 08, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
Golf - The Masters - Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, U.S. - April 10, 2024 Spain's Sergio Garcia and Spain's Jon Rahm on the 2nd hole during a practice round REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo
Golf - The 153rd Open Championship - Royal Portrush Golf Club, Portrush, Northern Ireland, Britain - July 17, 2025 Spain's Sergio Garcia in action during the first round REUTERS/Paul Childs/File Photo
May 16, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Luke Donald hits his second shot on the second hole during the second round of the PGA Championship golf tournament at Quail Hollow. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Luke Donald agreed to amend the Ryder Cup captains’ agreement so that one of Team USA’s vice-captains can advise players during sessions when Bradley is on the course.
  • The modification paves the way for Bradley to compete and captain simultaneously, a role not held by an American since Arnold Palmer in 1963.
  • Jim Furyk is reported to step into the de facto on-course captain role for Bradley’s tee times, with other vice-captains also available to assist.
  • Bradley currently sits tenth in the U.S. Ryder Cup standings with four weeks remaining to secure one of the six automatic qualification spots.
  • Bethpage Black will host the Ryder Cup from Sept. 26–28, and Bradley has confirmed Bryson DeChambeau as a key selection to strengthen Team USA’s home-course advantage.