Ryder Cup: USA prepares in Napa with a focus on team and chemistry

NAPA, California – The atmosphere at the Silverado Resort North Course feels different. With the Ryder Cup on the horizon, the Procore Championship transformed into a strategic gathering for the American team. Keegan Bradley, team captain, leads a week of intense preparation and camaraderie, marking a notable contrast to previous events.

Bradley: A Different Approach

In the middle of the field, Bradley, dressed in the Ryder Cup uniform, was joking with Scottie Scheffler during a practice round. The relaxed atmosphere is part of the captain’s plan, who is looking for a change in the team’s dynamics. The PGA Tour season has concluded, and now the focus is on Bethpage, where Bradley and his 12 players will seek victory.

Unlike in 2023, when most of the American team didn’t participate in events prior to the defeat in Rome, ten of the twelve members are present in Napa. Bryson DeChambeau, although not competing, attended a team dinner, while Xander Schauffele, absent due to the birth of his son, is the only absence.

“I think the players knew it was important. This Ryder Cup means everything to them. We talked a lot behind the scenes about how much this means to us, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to be prepared.”

Keegan Bradley

The initiative to participate in the tournament came from the players themselves, according to Bradley. Scheffler and Schauffele expressed their desire to play in this event from the beginning of the year. Competition is key to staying in shape and refining details. During practice, Justin Thomas was observed using a level to measure the slope, while Russell Henley was doing his own putting exercises. Harris English was working on his wedge game, and Collin Morikawa was practicing with his driver. The structure of the practice groups and tournament schedules suggest possible pairings for the competition. Camaraderie is a fundamental pillar. The players played matches in the “best-ball” style, simulating game scenarios by holes. Bradley estimates that they are at 90% in terms of defining the pairings, especially for alternate shots. The tournament in Napa offers a relaxed atmosphere, a “lighter stage” according to Bradley, ideal for unwinding before the pressure of Long Island. Interactions between players and technical staff are constant. Everyday moments, such as waiting to eat, were designed to foster team unity. Bradley strategically chose his assistants, including players from a younger generation. This decision, according to Woodland, seeks a closer connection with the players. Bradley emphasizes that his appointment as captain sought a change in the way the tournament is approached.

Bradley’s modifications include the organization of the week, the preparation of tasks prior to arrival in New York, a group chat with the team, and greater personal openness. Woodland highlights Bradley’s transformation, pointing out the emotional impact this tournament has on the captain. Although the Ryder Cup results don’t depend solely on a week in Napa, the American team hopes this experience will be a crucial step in their preparation and possibly lay the groundwork for future competitions. Bradley believes this could be an annual practice.