USA needs changes after Ryder Cup defeat: What’s next?

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

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – After another U.S. defeat to Europe in the 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, it’s time to analyze what went wrong and what is needed for the future of American golf. The Americans’ effort in Sunday’s singles, though valuable, only masked a 15-13 defeat, marking the eleventh loss in the last 15 encounters. With much of the European team expected back for the next Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, Ireland, in 2027, the challenge for the United States is uphill, this time on European soil. The European captain, Luke Donald, who became the second European captain to win two consecutive Ryder Cups, has not confirmed whether he will lead the team for a third time.

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

Keegan Bradley

Who could be the next captain of the US team? The key question is not just who will be the next captain, but how the PGA of America and American professional golf in general will support that leader. Bradley, in his debut as captain, admitted mistakes, especially in the preparation of the course at Bethpage Black. Donald, on the other hand, had a more solid organization, from statistics guru Edoardo Molinari to former captains Thomas Bjørn and Paul McGinley, who remain committed to European success. 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. However, it is unknown if the 15-time major champion will want to take on the role. If Woods decides not to participate, Brandt Snedeker, Webb Simpson, and Justin Leonard could be options. Fred Couples, with experience in five Ryder Cups, has never been captain, but enjoys popularity among players like Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth. It is essential that the United States thoroughly analyze what has failed in the last three decades. It might be time to create another “Ryder Cup Task Force”, as the Europeans not only beat them every two years, but consistently outperform them. During Sunday’s press conference, 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 frustration was palpable, leading to consideration of whether Bradley should have another chance as captain, given the respect and connection that the players feel for him.

“I had extreme confidence in what this team could do, and that’s because of our captain,” said Scottie Scheffler.

Scottie Scheffler

Although not all current players are guaranteed their presence on the future team, the possibility of seeking victory on European soil could galvanize them, especially with Bradley in charge. However, the PGA of America could opt for a change after the home defeat. Continuity is key in the Ryder Cup, and perhaps the United States could learn from Europe in this regard.

What can the United States learn from Europe?

Europeans have demonstrated a unique ability to create a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity, a model difficult to replicate. Beyond Donald’s effectiveness and continuity, Europeans are inspired by their predecessors and channel a collective desire to win. At a practical level, Americans could learn from the European attention to detail and the meticulousness of their overall plan. At an intangible level, the United States must find its own source of inspiration, beyond the simple desire to win.

Analysis of Scottie Scheffler in the Ryder Cup Scheffler, after a difficult week, emphasized the need to prepare better for the future, learning from the defeat. Golf requires different skills for team play, and although Scheffler is one of the best players in the world, this competition demands something more than distance control.

“I think it’s hard to put into words how much it hurts to lose all four matches,” Scheffler said.

Scottie Scheffler

In the last three Ryder Cups, Scheffler’s partners in the foursomes and fourball matches have been Bryson DeChambeau, Sam Burns, Brooks Koepka, Russell Henley, and J.J. Spaun, without success. Scheffler has a record of 0-4-0 in foursomes and 1-2-2 in fourball matches. Woods and Mickelson also didn’t have great results in the Ryder Cup. It’s too early to conclude that Scheffler won’t succeed, as he is one of the best golfers in the world and cares deeply about the game. The American team could consider the European strategy, where McIlroy played with Fleetwood and Rahm with Tyrrell Hatton, sending their best players together to secure points. What can be expected from the upcoming Ryder Cup venues? Adare Manor presents a challenge similar to an American course in Ireland, with water hazards and rough. The United States will not have the advantage of setting up the course, and the Europeans will seek to take advantage of every advantage. It is difficult to imagine the United States being the favorite in 2027. By 2029, at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, the United States could have a better chance. It is crucial that the fans at Hazeltine show appropriate behavior. The Ryder Cup should not become a wild party, as seen at Bethpage Black. What American players secured their place in the future? The American team doesn’t need a complete restructuring, but there is a select group of players who seem to have a guaranteed place on the 2027 team, as long as they maintain their health and level of play. Scheffler, Schauffele, Thomas, and DeChambeau are the core of the team. If Collin Morikawa regains his form and Patrick Cantlay continues to play well, the American captain could consider their Ryder Cup experience. Cameron Young, with a 3-1-0 record at Bethpage Black, proved to be key for the team, so he will likely be present in the future. The rest of the team will depend on the winners of majors and important events in the next two seasons. Will Spieth be able to regain his best form after his wrist injury? Will Spaun and Griffin continue to win? Will young golfers like Theegala, Bhatia, McNealy, Clanton and others take the next step in their careers? Max Homa, Wyndham Clark, and Brian Harman are other names to consider. What “young blood” could be a candidate for a place in 2027? Scheffler, Schauffele, Young, and DeChambeau seem to be the only ones with a guaranteed spot for 2027, leaving eight spots available for new talents. Jackson Koivun and Luke Clanton are promising names. Koivun is the best amateur in the world and already has his PGA Tour card, with three top-10 finishes in seven appearances. Clanton, who turned professional this year, has shown potential. Young’s success at Bethpage demonstrates that experience isn’t always the most important factor.