Keegan Bradley is facing a tough Ryder Cup decision on whether to select Cam Young. The United States captain has one of the most important choices of his career as he prepares to announce his six captain’s picks for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. With six players already qualified automatically, Bradley must now decide who else deserves a place on the team — and whether he should even select himself.
Young Says His Form is A “Hard One To Deny”
One of Bradley’s dilemmas is whether he should name himself as a playing captain. There have been several debates about this, with both former and current players weighing in. Should he select himself, he would become the first player-captain at the Ryder Cup since Arnold Palmer in 1963. It is a possibility he once dismissed, but his strong form this season and the support he has received from fellow professionals have made him reconsider. Even so, many believe his focus should remain on leading, not playing.
Another big decision facing Bradley is Cam Young. The 28-year-old has been in impressive form, showing consistency and confidence that many think make him a natural fit for the Ryder Cup team. Young also has the advantage of local knowledge, he grew up not far from Bethpage Black in New York. Supporters argue that having him in the team would not only strengthen the lineup but also fire up the home crowd. Young remains optimistic about his chances of making the team and acknowledges his form puts him in a good position to be considered.
“My recent form is kind of a hard one to deny. Aside from that, it’s my home state, it’s a golf course I love. It’s almost exclusively a major championship venue, and my major record is pretty good. I think there are a few points that, if I had to make my case to him, those are things I’d like him to know.”
Bradley Announcement Due Days After Tour Championship
The six players who have already secured their places are Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau. That leaves Bradley with six wild card selections to finalize the roster. Besides Cam Young, other strong contenders include Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Patrick Cantlay, and Ben Griffin. The mix of youth and experience available to Bradley makes his task even more complicated.
Many believe Young deserves the nod ahead of Bradley himself, as his current form and connection to the New York crowd make him an appealing option. There have even been calls that Bradley should prioritize Young over himself if the United States wants to field the strongest possible team. Bradley is set to reveal his six captain’s picks on August 27, just days after the Tour Championship. Until then, speculation will continue to swirl around his intentions.
Main Photo Credit: © Brett Davis-Imagn Images
