Before the automatic qualifying period ended and all uncertainties were resolved, Keegan Bradley, the U.S. Ryder Cup captain, asserted that Bryson DeChambeau would be part of his team at Bethpage Black, regardless of the upcoming summer events. Although the two-time U.S. Open champion was positioned within the top six for automatic qualification at that time, his spot wasn’t guaranteed solely based on points due to several additional tournaments ahead.
Bradley made sure DeChambeau understood that he was secure in his place on the American team. “Bryson is going to be a very important piece to us winning the Ryder Cup,” the captain expressed.
In his final opportunity to observe DeChambeau at The Open Championship, Bradley reassured him of his inclusion in the team. He left personal notes in lockers at Royal Portrush to motivate the players representing the U.S. in New York. “This year’s no joke,” DeChambeau remarked at The Open. “We’re tired of it. We’re tired of losing.”
This Ryder Cup serves as DeChambeau’s comeback to the competition after not being selected in 2023. His determination is evident, especially after a strong showing at the PGA Championship and winning at LIV Golf Greenbrier, where he recorded a final round of 58. Just a week before the U.S. team lost to Europe in Rome, he secured victory at LIV Golf Chicago.
DeChambeau’s exclusion by former captain Zach Johnson followed a 2021 Ryder Cup, during which he teamed with Scottie Scheffler, then an inexperienced player. They managed to secure 1.5 out of 2 points in their four-ball matches, with DeChambeau earning an additional full point in singles. However, Scheffler, now the world No. 1 and a four-time major champion, might not be partnered again with DeChambeau, unless Bradley opts for a bold strategy that combines two of his top players.
In betting terms, DeChambeau is currently projected as the second-highest American points scorer, following Scheffler. While Scheffler has thrived in pairing with Russell Henley and Sam Burns, figuring out the optimal partnership for DeChambeau remains a complex task for Bradley. The decision on how to best utilize the 31-year-old could significantly influence the Ryder Cup’s outcome.
As the foursomes format opens the Ryder Cup on Friday and Saturday mornings, and given Europe’s success in this format in previous competitions, a strategic start is vital for the U.S. team. DeChambeau may face pairing challenges, but optimal matchups could unleash his full potential, significantly impacting the Americans’ chances for success.
