Keegan Bradley: From the Forbidden Court to Ryder Cup Captain
Farmingdale, N.Y. – Keegan Bradley, a prominent figure in American golf, has traveled a fascinating path. From his beginnings at St. John’s, where he shared with his teammates the privilege of playing on the famous Black Course at Bethpage State Park, to his appointment as captain of the Ryder Cup team, Bradley’s trajectory is a testament to perseverance and passion for the sport.
In his college days, Bradley and his teammates had access to the course on Mondays, when it was closed to the public. Coach Frank Darby had negotiated this agreement with the superintendent of Bethpage Black, Craig Currier. The course, known as the “People’s Country Club”, became Bradley’s favorite.
It was like being able to shoot basketball shots at Madison Square Garden with no one in the stadium, with no one there.
Mike Ballo Jr., Bradley’s former teammate
However, access was restricted: only holes 3 to 14 could be played. One day, Bradley and his partner George Zolotas decided to defy the rules and play holes 15 to 18, which caused them problems with security. Despite this incident, the experience at Bethpage Black forged a special bond with the course.This weekend, Bradley, at 39 years old, returns to Bethpage Black as captain of the U.S. Ryder Cup team. A role that makes him the youngest captain since Jack Nicklaus in 1963. For the player from Vermont, this experience represents a full circle in his career.
Bradley’s selection as captain was unexpected. Despite his achievements, including the 2011 PGA Championship, he didn’t always feel part of golf’s elite. He wasn’t invited to important meetings and was left off the 2023 Ryder Cup team. This rejection was a difficult moment for Bradley and his family.
Bradley’s story is marked by his roots in Vermont. His father, Mark Bradley, passed on his passion for golf, and his aunt, Pat Bradley, is a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame. From a young age, Keegan dedicated himself to golf, training with discipline and determination.After a period living in a trailer with his father, Keegan excelled in high school golf and opted for St. John’s, where he received a full scholarship. His leadership and natural talent made him a key figure on the university team.
Bradley’s connection to golf and team spirit was strengthened during his college years. His St. John’s teammates accompanied him at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony, demonstrating the importance of the bonds forged over the years.
Bradley’s journey on the PGA Tour wasn’t always easy. His father recounts that at first, Bradley focused on beating his opponents. Over time, he became close to figures like Justin Thomas and learned to value friendship in the sport.
Bradley, currently ranked number 13 in the world, has won tournaments in the last four seasons. Although he considered being the first player-captain since Arnold Palmer, he ultimately chose to focus on his leadership role and support his teammates.
Despite not competing on the field, Bradley feels honored to lead his team and hopes that this experience will further strengthen his golf career.
Bradley has learned to value friendship and camaraderie in sports, something he will treasure for the rest of his life.
Keegan Bradley’s journey, from the forbidden courts to the Ryder Cup captaincy, is an example of perseverance and passion for golf.
