USA Seeks Revenge in the Ryder Cup: What Went Wrong and Next Steps?

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

After a new defeat of the American team against Europe in the 45th edition of the Ryder Cup, held at Bethpage Black, it is time to analyze the causes and plan for the future. The European team, led by figures like Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood and Jon Rahm, once again demonstrated their superiority, leaving the Americans with a bitter taste in their mouths.

Despite the reaction of the Americans in Sunday’s singles matches, which made the final score 15-13, this was the eleventh defeat in the last fifteen encounters. With much of the European team ready to compete in the next Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, Ireland, in 2027, the United States faces a considerable challenge on foreign soil.

American captain Keegan Bradley acknowledged that the European team, and especially their captain Luke Donald, had been an unstoppable force.

Keegan Bradley

Who Will Be the Next Captain?

The question about the next American captain is crucial. Mark Schlabach suggests that the real question is how the PGA of America and American professional golf will support the new leader. Bradley, as a rookie in the role, made mistakes, especially in the preparation of the course at Bethpage Black. Donald, on the other hand, had a stronger organization, including experts in statistics and former captains who remain committed to European success. Tiger Woods, a friend of the owner of Adare Manor, is the favorite to captain the team in 2027, coinciding with the centenary of the Ryder Cup. Although he has not yet confirmed his interest, it is expected that, if he accepts, he will commit to a two-year period. If Woods is not available, names like Brandt Snedeker, Webb Simpson, and Justin Leonard could be considered. The American team needs a deep reflection on what has failed in the last three decades. It might be time to establish a new “Ryder Cup Task Force”, given that the Europeans not only beat them in the biennial tournaments, but also demonstrate their superiority consistently. Paolo Uggetti’s analysis reveals that the defeat hurt the American team. He believes Bradley could get a second chance, as the players respect him and feel connected to him. Scottie Scheffler also backed Bradley, highlighting his confidence in the captain. Continuity is key in this event, and Americans could learn from European cohesion.

What Can the United States Learn from Europe?

Europeans have created a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity that is effective, but difficult to replicate. Beyond Donald’s direction, Europeans are inspired by their predecessors and the desire to win as a team, something Americans have yet to achieve. Europeans focus on details that add up over time and meticulous planning. Americans must find their own source of inspiration, beyond the simple desire to win.

What does Scheffler need to improve his game at the Ryder Cup?

Scottie Scheffler, despite being one of the best players in the world, struggled in team matches, with a record of 0-4. This could motivate him to prepare differently for Adare Manor. The defeat in the 2023 Ryder Cup taught him the importance of better preparation. Scheffler has had different partners in the foursomes and fourball matches in the last three Ryder Cups, but none have worked. It is essential that Scheffler finds a way to adapt to team play, which requires different skills than individual play. Scheffler, despite being the best golfer in the world, has yet to find his best performance in the Ryder Cup. Americans might consider the European strategy, where McIlroy and Fleetwood, or Rahm and Hatton, formed pairs, securing valuable points.

What to expect from the next Ryder Cup venues?

Adare Manor presents a design similar to that of American courses, with water hazards and rough. The Europeans will seek to make the most of the course to achieve a new victory. It is difficult to imagine the United States as favorites in 2027. The American team could have a better chance at the 2029 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club, where they won in 2016. This victory came after the creation of a “Ryder Cup Task Force”. It is essential that fans at Hazeltine show respect for visiting players. The behavior at Bethpage Black was unacceptable, and the Ryder Cup must not become an out-of-control party.

Which American players secured their place in the future?

Scheffler, Schauffele, Thomas, and DeChambeau seem to be the pillars of the team for 2027. Morikawa and Cantlay could be considered if they maintain their good performance. Cameron Young, with his outstanding performance at Bethpage Black, seems to be a sure thing. The rest of the team will depend on the results in the majors and important events in the next two years. Players like Spieth, Spaun, Griffin, Theegala, Bhatia, McNealy, Clanton and other young players could have a chance. Homa and Clark, who haven’t had their best performance, and Harman, a match play specialist, could also be considered for Adare Manor.

Which young players could join the team in 2027?

Uggetti believes that the team composition for 2027 is open. In addition to Scheffler, Schauffele, Young and DeChambeau, eight places are available for new talents. Koivun, the best amateur in the world, and Clanton could be interesting options. Young’s success at Bethpage demonstrates that experience is not always the most important factor for player selection.

Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler lost to Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood in Saturday’s four-balls.

Cameron Young was one of the US standouts, with a record of 3-1-0.

Jackson Koivun finished T-4 at the Procore Championship as an amateur.