Trump to Attend Ryder Cup; Backs Captain Keegan Bradley to Play
ATLANTA — President Donald Trump has announced that he will be attending the eagerly awaited Ryder Cup next month in New York, and he strongly believes that U.S. captain Keegan Bradley should compete as a player.
On Saturday, Trump shared on his social media account that he plans to be present on Friday, September 26, for the start of the three-day matches between the United States and Europe. He mentioned that he received an invitation from the PGA Tour, although he mistakenly referred to it as the PGA of America, which actually oversees the Ryder Cup. A spokesperson for the PGA of America confirmed that both they and Bradley officially invited Trump.
This year’s Ryder Cup is generating even more excitement than usual, thanks to its location at the Black course in Bethpage State Park, known for having some of the most passionate golf fans around.
Given Trump’s known enthusiasm for golf, it was anticipated that he would make an appearance during the event. Earlier this year, he held discussions with PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan and Tiger Woods, aiming to bridge the divide caused by the emergence of the LIV Golf league. Recently, the PGA Tour announced it will return to Trump National Doral in Florida next year, marking its first appearance there in nearly a decade.
Bradley, the youngest American captain since Arnold Palmer, faces a tough decision: whether to play in the matches, a move not seen since Palmer in 1963. The debate around this choice has stirred significant interest, especially as Bradley has notched two tournament victories in the past year.
He recently shot an impressive 63 on Saturday, just hours before Trump’s post, positioning himself in the top rankings for the season-ending FedEx Cup. Trump expressed his strong support for Bradley, stating, “Keegan Bradley should DEFINITELY be on the American Ryder Cup Team — As Captain!!! He is an AMAZING guy. It will be a great Ryder Cup.”
Trump’s connections with prominent golfers, including Bryson DeChambeau, who made the U.S. team, further emphasize his deep ties to the sport. DeChambeau has previously played golf with Trump and was appointed to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.
Bradley is expected to announce his six captain’s picks on Wednesday, which will clarify his participation in the competition.
In the world of golf, the Ryder Cup remains a significant event, showcasing not just athletic skill but also national pride. Trump’s participation highlights his ongoing support for American sports and athletes.
