Donald Trump Confirms Ryder Cup Attendance and Backs Keegan Bradley Playing as Captain
Well, well, well. Look who’s decided to grace the golf world with his presidential presence again. Donald Trump has officially announced he’ll be attending the upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, and naturally, he couldn’t resist sharing his unsolicited opinion about Team USA captain Keegan Bradley’s playing status. Because apparently, running the country doesn’t leave enough time for golf commentary.
Trump’s Truth Social Declaration About Bradley
In typical Trump fashion, the announcement came via his beloved Truth Social platform on Saturday night. The 79-year-old president proclaimed that Bradley “should DEFINITELY be on the American Ryder Cup Team – As Captain!!!” Complete with multiple exclamation marks, because subtlety has never really been his thing, has it?
Trump gushed about Bradley being an “AMAZING guy” and promised it would be “a great Ryder Cup.” He also mentioned being invited by the “PGA Tour” – though he seems to have confused the PGA Tour with the PGA of America, which actually runs the Ryder Cup. Minor details, right? A PGA of America spokesman clarified that both the organization and Bradley extended the invitation to the president.
The timing of Trump’s endorsement is particularly interesting, coming just hours after Bradley shot a blistering 63 at East Lake during the Tour Championship. Talk about perfect timing – or perhaps Trump was watching Golf Channel instead of handling state affairs.
Bradley’s Historic Dilemma About Playing and Captaining
Here’s where things get genuinely fascinating. Bradley finds himself in a position that hasn’t been seen since Arnold Palmer in 1963 – potentially serving as both captain and player. At 39, he’s the youngest American Ryder Cup captain since Palmer was 34, and his recent form has everyone wondering if he should suit up alongside his team.
The debate has been raging for months, but Bradley’s recent success has only intensified the discussion. He’s won twice in the past year and currently sits in fourth place at the Tour Championship with a legitimate shot at the FedEx Cup. Not exactly the resume of someone who should be sitting on the sidelines with a clipboard.
“It’s just really strange for me to be the captain,” Bradley admitted, perhaps understating the situation just a bit. “It’s not something anyone’s really ever gone through. But that’s all I’m thinking about (being captain). Thinking about pairings, certain things I want to say to the guys during the week. It’s just difficult.”
The Bethpage Black Atmosphere Will Be Electric
If you thought previous Ryder Cups were rowdy, wait until you see what Bethpage Black brings to the table. This public course on Long Island has a reputation for hosting some of the most passionate – and let’s be honest, occasionally obnoxious – golf fans in America. Add Trump’s presence to an already charged atmosphere, and you’ve got a recipe for absolute chaos.
The venue choice couldn’t be more perfect for drama. Bethpage Black doesn’t just host golf tournaments; it stages theatrical productions where the crowd becomes part of the show. European players better bring their noise-canceling headphones because the New York faithful won’t be holding back.
Trump’s Golf Connections and Ryder Cup Politics
This isn’t just a casual presidential visit to a sporting event. Trump’s golf connections run deep, and his relationship with several players could add interesting subplot. Bryson DeChambeau, who qualified for the US team, has played golf with Trump and was recently appointed to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. The only golfer to receive such an honor, by the way.
Earlier this year, Trump met with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan and Tiger Woods in an unsuccessful attempt to resolve the ongoing divide created by LIV Golf. While that diplomatic mission failed, the PGA Tour announced this week that it would return to Trump National Doral in Florida next year for the first time in nearly a decade. Coincidence? Probably not.
Bradley’s Decision Deadline Approaches
All eyes will be on Wednesday when Bradley announces his six captain’s picks. This is when we’ll finally learn whether he plans to follow Trump’s advice and name himself to the team. The decision carries significant weight – not just for team chemistry and strategy, but for golf history.
Playing captains are rare for good reason. The dual responsibilities of managing a team and performing under pressure create challenges that few can handle effectively. Palmer managed it in 1963, but golf was a different beast back then. The modern Ryder Cup is a pressure cooker that tests even the most seasoned professionals.
The Stakes for American Golf
Team USA desperately needs to reclaim the Ryder Cup after losing to Europe at Marco Simone Golf Club in Italy. The Europeans have dominated recent competitions, and the pressure is mounting for America to deliver on home soil. Bradley’s decision about playing could significantly impact team dynamics and strategy.
With Trump in attendance and the Bethpage crowd providing maximum volume, the stage is set for one of the most memorable Ryder Cups in recent memory. Whether Bradley heeds the presidential advice remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain – this won’t be a quiet weekend of golf.
The Ryder Cup begins Friday, September 26, and if Trump’s attendance is any indication, the drama will start long before the first tee shot.
