Post Ryder Cup Analysis: What’s Next for the American Team?
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – After another defeat for the United States against Europe in the 45th Ryder Cup held at Bethpage Black, it’s time to analyze what went wrong and what is needed for the future. The American team’s effort in Sunday’s singles couldn’t hide the shortcomings of a 15-13 defeat, the eleventh in the last 15 encounters. With much of the European team, including Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, and Jon Rahm, expected to return in the next Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, Ireland, in 2027, the Americans will face another challenge on foreign soil.Luke Donald, who became the second European captain to win two consecutive Ryder Cups, has not confirmed whether he will be present for a third time.I think he turned this European team into a truly unstoppable force, especially the first two days, and in my opinion, I think he’s the best European Ryder Cup captain of all time.
Keegan Bradley, captain of the American team
Who Will Be the Next Captain?
The key question is not just who will be the next captain, but how the PGA of America and American professional golf will support him. Bradley, as a rookie captain, made mistakes, especially in the setup at Bethpage Black. Donald had better organization, from statistics guru Edoardo Molinari to former captains Thomas Bjørn and Paul McGinley, who remain committed to European dominance. Tiger Woods is the favorite to captain the American team at Adare Manor in 2027, on the centenary of the Ryder Cup. Woods has a friendship with the owner of Adare Manor, J.P. McManus. If Woods declines, Brandt Snedeker, Webb Simpson and Justin Leonard could be considered. It is crucial to analyze what has failed in the last three decades. It might be necessary to create another Ryder Cup Task Force, as the Europeans not only win on competition weekends, but dominate throughout the year. During Sunday’s press conference, it was suggested that Bradley might get another chance. The players respect him and feel connected to him. Scottie Scheffler stated that the team trusts Bradley. The bitter taste of losing at home could be a hurdle for the PGA of America. Bradley, still in his playing career, could try to qualify to play at Adare Manor. Continuity is key in this event, and the Americans could learn from it.What Can the United States Learn from Europe?
Europeans create a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity that is effective, but difficult to replicate. In addition to Donald and continuity, Europeans are inspired by their predecessors and have a desire to win for others that Americans have yet to master. Americans must find their own source of inspiration beyond the simple desire to win, and focus on the details that accumulate over time.What Does Scheffler Need to Improve in the Ryder Cup?
Maintaining consistency is key. Scheffler learned from the 2023 defeat and prepared better, but the current defeat could lead him to prepare differently for Adare Manor. Scheffler, despite being one of the best players on the American team, needs to prove that he can perform in team events, where a different mindset is required. The image shows Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler, who lost to Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood in Saturday’s four-balls.
What Can We Expect From the Next Two Ryder Cup Events?
Adare Manor seems to have a similar setup to the United States in Ireland. Americans will not have the advantage of setting up the course, and Europeans will seek to take advantage of every advantage to achieve their third consecutive title. It is difficult to imagine the United States being the favorite in 2027. Americans haven’t won on European soil since 1993, losing the last seven away games. The 2029 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, could be a better opportunity. It’s time to reconsider the strategy. The fans at Hazeltine should treat visitors with respect, avoiding the inappropriate behavior seen at Bethpage Black.Which American Players Secured Their Place in the Future?
There is no need to panic, but only a few players seem to have a guaranteed spot on the 2027 team, as long as they are healthy and playing well. Scheffler, Schauffele, Thomas, and DeChambeau are the core of the team. If Collin Morikawa regains his form and Patrick Cantlay continues to play well, it would be difficult to ignore their experience. Cameron Young, with a 3-1-0 record at Bethpage Black, is a key player. After that, it will depend on who wins the majors and important events in the next two seasons. Will Spieth be able to be among the best in the world again? Will J.J. Spaun and Ben Griffin continue to win? Will young players like Sahith Theegala, Akshay Bhatia, Maverick McNealy, and Luke Clanton be able to take the next step? Max Homa and Wyndham Clark, could be considered. Brian Harman could be a better option for Adare Manor.
What ‘New Blood’ Could Aspire to a Position in 2027?
The composition of the 2027 team is uncertain. Scheffler, Schauffele, Young, and DeChambeau seem to be the only ones with a guaranteed spot. This leaves eight spots available, which could open opportunities for promising young players. Jackson Koivun and Clanton are interesting options. Koivun is the best amateur in the world and already has his PGA Tour card, with three top-10 finishes in just seven events, all in his three most recent events. Clanton, who turned professional this year, has shown great potential. Young’s success at Bethpage is a reminder that experience should not always be the main factor in selecting a captain or in a player’s role on a team.
