Like many within the golf world, Phil Mickelson stated that he was stunned by the PGA of America’s resolution to nominate Keegan Bradley as the subsequent U.S. Ryder Cup captain.
“And I feel it’s a fantastic decide the extra I give it some thought,” Mickelson advised reporters Wednesday on the LIV occasion at Valderrama.
Mickelson, who fashioned a profitable partnership with Bradley that went 4-1 of their two cups collectively, most just lately in 2014, cited Bradley’s ardour for the occasion in addition to his familiarity with Bethpage Black and regional ties rising up in New England and attending St. John’s.
Bradley stated he desires “the 12 finest gamers” on the U.S. workforce, no matter tour.
“His ardour for the Ryder Cup is larger than simply about any participant I’ve ever seen. His love for the Ryder Cup is greater than anyone I do know. I feel he’s going to steer with that sort of ardour,” Mickelson stated. “I feel he’s unimaginable. I’m actually, actually blissful for him. I feel all of us are actually blissful for him figuring out how gut-wrenching it was to not be a part of the workforce final 12 months, however to now have the chance to steer and go ahead I feel is nice.”
Mickelson was lengthy considered in line because the American captain at Bethpage, however he seemingly fell out of favor with the PGA as soon as he turned one of many chief recruiters for LIV. Bradley stated Tuesday that he maintains a fantastic relationship with Mickelson however that he didn’t envision him being part of this 12 months’s workforce.
In his introductory press convention, Bradley additionally urged {that a} participant’s tour affiliation wouldn’t be an element as he rounds out his 12-man squad. As of now, the one method for LIV gamers to accrue Ryder Cup factors is thru their efficiency within the majors, and Bradley stated that he might look to extend the variety of computerized spots from six to eight.
Brooks Koepka was the lone LIV consultant on the 2023 workforce after he obtained a captain’s decide, on the power of his PGA Championship victory. Bryson DeChambeau is at present second in factors, following his stirring efficiency at Pinehurst, and he stated Wednesday that he was enthusiastic about Bradley’s appointment.
“I feel it’s a fantastic alternative for him, particularly because it pertains to youthful gamers,” DeChambeau stated. “He’s going to see that youthful threshold, and clearly relate to them much more due to his age (38). He’s seeing the youthful era extra. He’s on the market nonetheless competing, and it’s nice to have some relatability.
“So far as choosing one of the best gamers, that’s the correct strategy, and I couldn’t be extra blissful for him as captain.”
