The Ryder Cup is approaching in under two months, and team rosters are starting to crystallize. Each team will have six players automatically qualify, while another six will be chosen by the captains.
As of now, three players have already mathematically secured their spots on each side. The final automatic qualifications for the U.S. will be confirmed after this week’s BMW Championship, whereas Europe’s will be determined following next week’s British Masters. Here’s what we know so far:
Confirmed Players
United States: Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau
There are no surprises among the first three, as Scheffler, Spaun, and Schauffele have garnered enough points for the team. Scheffler continues to be a standout, Schauffele is recovering from early-season injuries, and Spaun has demonstrated his U.S. Open victory was no accident. DeChambeau, now back in the LIV tour with no further chance to earn points, remains fifth in the standings. However, team captain Keegan Bradley has indicated DeChambeau will still make the team.
Europe: Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood
McIlroy is a staple in Ryder Cup teams, and Rose and Fleetwood have successfully made their case with consistent performances. Rose has seen a boost late in his career, while Fleetwood frequently finishes close enough to earn Ryder Cup points, if not championships.
Players Close to Automatic Qualification
United States: Russell Henley, Harris English
Henley’s recent strong finishes, capped by a win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, put him in contention for the Ryder Cup, while English secured a victory at the Farmers Insurance Open and had high placements in both the PGA and Open Championships.
Europe: Robert MacIntyre, Tyrrell Hatton, Sepp Straka
Hatton mirrors DeChambeau’s situation by being unable to earn further points on the LIV tour, yet remains a solid player. MacIntyre was close to winning the U.S. Open, and Straka has already notched two tour wins this season.
Candidates for Captain’s Picks
Each captain will have six picks, which introduces an interesting dilemma: should they choose a player who thrives in less stressful situations or a player with a less consistent record but who excels under pressure? Options for the U.S. include Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas; Morikawa remains a top candidate despite a rough year, while Thomas, a polarizing pick two years ago, has secured his value this time around.
For Europe, Shane Lowry, Ludvig Åberg are in the mix. Lowry’s solid finishes and friendship with McIlroy make him a candidate, while Åberg remains a fierce competitor despite a slight decline since turning pro. Jon Rahm, despite a tough spot in the standings due to his LIV involvement, is still a notable player to watch.
Key Question: Will Keegan Bradley Choose Himself?
Keegan Bradley is a captivating figure in Ryder Cup history. Overlooked by captain Zach Johnson in 2023 yet ascended to captain for 2025, he continues to perform at a high level, currently ranked 10th in U.S. standings. He now faces a decision: will he opt to be a playing captain, select himself, or defer to another player? Each decision is bound to be scrutinized as the Ryder Cup approaches in September, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s event.
