US in crisis: What went wrong in the Ryder Cup and what’s next?

Analysis of the American Defeat in the Ryder Cup: What’s Next?

After a new defeat for the United States against Europe in the 45th Ryder Cup held at Bethpage Black, it’s time to analyze the mistakes and plan for the future. The Americans’ effort in Sunday’s singles failed to mask the shortcomings that led to a 15-13 defeat, the eleventh in the last 15 encounters. With much of the European team set to return at the next Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, Ireland, in 2027, the challenge for the Americans will be even greater, this time on hostile territory. The European captain, Luke Donald, who became the second European captain to win two consecutive Ryder Cups, has not yet confirmed whether he will be present for a third edition.

“I think he turned this European team into an unstoppable force, especially the first two days, and in my opinion, I think he’s the best European Ryder Cup captain of all time,” commented U.S. captain Keegan Bradley.

Keegan Bradley

Who could be the next captain of the US team? The key lies not only in choosing a new captain, but in how the PGA of America and American professional golf will support that person. Bradley, as a rookie captain, made mistakes, particularly in the preparation for Bethpage Black. Donald counted on a better organization, from the statistics guru and vice-captain 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, coinciding with the centenary of the Ryder Cup. Woods has a close relationship with the owner of Adare Manor, J.P. McManus. If Woods declines, Brandt Snedeker, Webb Simpson, and Justin Leonard could be options. The United States may need a new “Task Force” to analyze what has failed in the last three decades, as Europeans not only beat them every two years, but constantly outperform them. During Sunday’s press conference, when Bradley was asked if he ever felt that Donald had “outplayed” him as captain, Thomas interrupted, defending Bradley and pointing out the need to improve putts. The atmosphere of defeat was palpable, which could lead to considering Bradley’s continuation. The players seem to respect him and feel connected to him, as demonstrated by the support of Thomas and others. Scottie Scheffler also backed Bradley. While continuity could be beneficial, the PGA of America might not be willing to accept another home defeat. Bradley, still active as a player, might even try to qualify to play at Adare Manor. Continuity is key, as Europe has shown.

What Can the U.S. Learn from Europe?

Europeans have created a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity that is effective, but difficult to replicate. In addition to Donald’s direction and continuity, they have known how to draw inspiration from their predecessors and motivate themselves to win for the team, something the American team has yet to achieve. Americans need to find their own source of inspiration, beyond the simple desire to win. Europeans focus on details that add up over time and on a meticulous plan.

What does Scheffler need to improve on in the Ryder Cup?

The image shows Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler.

Maintaining consistency in the game. Scheffler, after the 2023 defeat, learned the importance of better preparation, avoiding long breaks between competitions. The current defeat, with a record of 0-4 in team matches, could motivate him to prepare differently for Adare Manor. The difficulty Scheffler faced in team events, despite his individual dominance, is a reminder that this event requires something more than statistics. Scheffler acknowledged that this week was one of the “lowest moments” of his career. In the last three Ryder Cups, Scheffler’s partners in the foursomes and fourball matches were Bryson DeChambeau, Sam Burns, Brooks Koepka, Russell Henley, and J.J. Spaun, without success. It is crucial that Scheffler finds a way to succeed in these formats. Americans might consider the European strategy, which consisted of pairing their best golfers, almost guaranteeing two points in certain sessions.

What can we expect from the next Ryder Cup courses?

Adare Manor presents a design similar to that of an American course in Ireland, with water hazards and rough. The Americans will not have the advantage of setting up the course, as happened at Bethpage. The Europeans will seek to take advantage of every advantage to achieve their third consecutive triumph. The Americans’ chances at Adare Manor are low. They haven’t won on European soil since 1993, losing the last seven away matches. Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, could be a more favorable setting in 2029, where the Americans won in 2016. It’s time to re-analyze what works and what doesn’t, as was done with the previous “Task Force”, which included Woods and other prominent players. Fans at Hazeltine are expected to show respectful behavior, unlike what happened at Bethpage Black.

Which American players have established themselves for the future?

The image shows Cameron Young.

While a radical change isn’t necessary, there are key players with chances of being on the 2027 team, provided they maintain their performance. Scheffler, Schauffele, Thomas, and DeChambeau are mainstays. If Collin Morikawa and Patrick Cantlay regain their form, the captain could consider their experience. Cameron Young, with a 3-1-0 record at Bethpage Black, proved his worth. The rest of the team will depend on performance in the majors and important events over the next two years. Will Spieth, J.J. Spaun, and Ben Griffin be able to maintain their success? Will young talents like Sahith Theegala, Akshay Bhatia, Maverick McNealy, Luke Clanton, and others take the next step? Max Homa and Wyndham Clark, who underperformed, and Brian Harman, could be options for Adare Manor.

Which “young blood” could be eligible for a position in 2027?

The image shows Jackson Koivun.

The 2027 team could see several changes. Scheffler, Schauffele, Young, and DeChambeau seem to be locks, leaving eight spots available. Jackson Koivun and Luke Clanton could be interesting options. Koivun, the best amateur in the world, already has his PGA Tour card and has achieved three top-10 finishes in seven participations. Clanton, who turned professional this year, could also be an option. Young’s success at Bethpage demonstrates that experience is not always the most important factor in team selection.