The Ryder Cup: Four Months Before the Event at Bethpage Black
As the major championship season reaches its midpoint, the excitement for this year’s Ryder Cup intensifies. With only four months remaining, the United States and European teams are preparing for the showdown at the Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York, from September 26th to 28th. The captains, Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley, are in the midst of evaluating the landscape, making crucial decisions to define their teams.
While Bradley continues his good performance, climbing in the U.S. ranking, Donald has closely followed the situation, making a reconnaissance trip to the Bethpage Black course. The goal is clear: to ensure that his teams are ready for the competition.
The six best golfers from each team, based on points earned, will automatically qualify, while Bradley and Donald will have six captain’s picks to complete their squads.
United States Team
Almost certain players
Scottie Scheffler: The world number one, after his recent victory at the PGA Championship, seeks redemption after the 2023 defeat. His precision and power on the course will be key at Bethpage Black.
Xander Schauffele: With two major championships under his belt last year, Schauffele is in good form after an injury. His versatility makes him a valuable player for the team.
Bryson DeChambeau: Known for his power, DeChambeau has been in contention in several recent majors. His energy and ability to excite the crowd are a significant asset.
Justin Thomas: After a period of underperformance, Thomas has regained his form and is one of the best players in the United States in team events.
Collin Morikawa: His performance in the Ryder Cup reflects Schauffele’s. Morikawa is back, hitting the ball with precision and complementing other players.
With possibilities to enter
Patrick Cantlay: Experienced Ryder Cup player, Cantlay has proven his worth in previous events. His experience is a valuable asset to the team.
Russell Henley: One of the best iron players in the world, Henley is a great player when he’s in form. His game complements others on the team.
In consideration
Brooks Koepka: The five-time major champion, with Ryder Cup experience, is a player to consider.
Harris English: Following his victory at the Farmers Insurance Open, English has shown good performance. His precision in hitting is remarkable.
Jordan Spieth: Despite a wrist injury, Spieth is close to regaining his best form. His experience in the event is valuable.
Brian Harman: Harman is one of the best putters on the circuit and a specialist in stroke play.
Maverick McNealy: Following his recent victory at the RSM Classic, McNealy could debut in the Ryder Cup, bringing freshness to the team.
Keegan Bradley: Bradley could be a player and captain, depending on the performance of other American golfers.
Daniel Berger: Berger has been battling an injury, but he has proven his worth in the past.
Max Homa: Homa has been working to improve his game, showing recent improvements.
Other names to consider include Andrew Novak, Sam Burns, J.J. Spaun, Wyndham Clark, Michael Kim, Tony Finau, Lucas Glover, Denny McCarthy, Ben Griffin, J.T. Poston, and Davis Riley.
European Team
Almost certain players
Rory McIlroy: The Masters champion is the undisputed leader of the European team. His goal is to win the Ryder Cup as a visitor.
Jon Rahm: Despite some ups and downs, Rahm remains a key player for the European team. His experience and determination are fundamental.
With chances to enter
Ludvig Aberg: Aberg has proven to be a high-level player and a valuable addition to the team.
Sepp Straka: Despite some recent results, Straka is almost certainly on the team due to his position in the rankings.
Shane Lowry: Lowry, a top player in the world ranking, is in good form and could be a key piece on the team.
Tyrrell Hatton: Hatton has maintained a consistent game and his position in the rankings makes him a strong contender.
Viktor Hovland: Despite the volatility, Hovland is an important player and will likely be on the team.
Tommy Fleetwood: Fleetwood is a consistent player and a strong candidate for the team.
In consideration
Justin Rose: Rose continues to play at a notable level and could be considered for the team.
Rasmus Hojgaard: Hojgaard has potential and could strengthen his career in the Ryder Cup.
Robert MacIntyre: MacIntyre proved his worth in the last Ryder Cup and could be selected again.
Thomas Detry: Detry has improved his game and could be an option for the team.
Other names to consider include Aaron Rai, Stephan Jaeger, Nicolai Hojgaard, and Alex Noren.
