The Athletic provides live coverage of the
2025 Ryder Cup first pairings and final practice
.
Embracing the Moment
In Farmingdale, NY, Mark Bradley, a 72-year-old club professional, was pleasantly surprised by the attention from the crowd as he walked under a massive American flag. Fans were eager for autographs, and one particularly enthusiastic patron handed Bradley a USA basketball jersey to deliver to his son, a gesture that made Bradley laugh as he donned it for the remainder of the round. Additionally, he received an envelope addressed to “Keegan Bradley, Captain,” leading him to humorously contemplate its contents.
Transformative Year
Recently, the excitement surrounding Keegan Bradley, the unexpected 39-year-old Ryder Cup captain, has been profound. Over the past year, he’s navigated personal growth, learning to accept the accolades while moving beyond the pressures that previously defined him. His experience from the previous year, marked by disappointment when he wasn’t selected for the team, served as a pivotal moment that made him reevaluate his approach to golf and life.
A Journey of Self-Reflection
Bradley’s success has often been fueled by his desire to prove detractors wrong. He describes his past as an isolated existence, building walls around himself due to constant competition. Despite being a champion with multiple accolades, he often felt like an outsider among peers. However, his recent experiences, particularly the way he embraced vulnerability leading up to the Ryder Cup, have softened his approach, making him more personable and open to connection.
Building Bridges
As he stepped into the role of captain, Bradley made a conscious effort to foster relationships with fellow players. His interactions with younger golfers showcased a vibrant camaraderie, allowing him to witness a supportive culture that contrasted with his own previous isolation. Engaging with players like Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns, he realized the significance of friendship and communication within the competitive realm.
Choosing Leadership Over Play
With impressive recent performances, Bradley faced the dilemma of selecting himself as a playing captain. Ultimately, he prioritized the team over personal ambition, acknowledging the responsibilities of leadership. Reflecting on his lifelong dream of being part of the Ryder Cup, he found fulfillment not in personal participation, but in guiding and supporting his teammates.
A Legacy in the Making
Regardless of what comes next in his career, this weekend in New York may define Bradley’s legacy. Transitioning from a personal focus to embracing collective joy, he has emerged as the “people’s captain,” displaying a newfound warmth and connection. In his speeches, he encourages his team to savor each moment, reinforcing the lesson that success isn’t solely about personal achievement but about camaraderie and shared experiences.
The People’s Captain
As the crowd celebrates him, Bradley guides their applause towards his team, showing how far he’s come in seeing them not as competitors, but as comrades. This newfound perspective may ultimately reshape his identity and approach to golf, making Bradley a testament to the power of evolution and connection in sports.
