Keegan Bradley isn’t hiding from the sting of Team USA’s Ryder Cup loss - in fact, he’s wearing it like a scar. And if you ask him, it’s a scar that may never fully heal.
Bradley, who captained the U.S. squad in their 15-13 defeat to Europe at Bethpage Black, made it clear this week: he’d jump at the chance to lead the team again. The loss, particularly on home soil, has left what he calls a “gaping hole” in his career - and it’s not the kind of void you can grind your way out of.
“This isn’t like losing The Masters or a regular tournament,” Bradley said ahead of the Hero World Challenge. “You can’t just work harder and get another shot. Being Ryder Cup captain isn’t something you earn through play - it’s something that’s given to you.”
Bradley became the first captain since 2012 - on either side - to lose a Ryder Cup at home. And it wasn’t just a loss; it was a gut-punch. Luke Donald’s European squad jumped out to a record-setting lead over the first two days, and while the Americans made a late push, it wasn’t enough.
Now, with the 2027 Ryder Cup set for Adare Manor in Ireland, the big question is who will lead Team USA next. The PGA of America hasn’t named a captain yet, and while Tiger Woods remains the most talked-about candidate, Bradley isn’t shy about wanting another shot - even if he knows it’s probably a long shot.
“Of course I’d love to do it again,” he said. “I’d love to avenge that loss.
But it’s not up to me. I don’t think it’s fair for me to campaign for it, but I think if you ask any captain who’s lost, they’d all want another shot.”
As for Tiger? Bradley didn’t mince words.
“If Tiger wants to do it, he’s going to do it,” he said. “He’s a hero to all of us, and he’s an incredible leader.
Everyone would want to play for him. I’m pretty sure when he’s ready, it’s his.”
Woods, for his part, said earlier this week that “no one has asked” him about taking the role, though he famously declined the opportunity two years ago due to his growing responsibilities with the PGA Tour. But it’s clear that if he gives the green light, the job is his.
Bradley, meanwhile, is still processing what the Ryder Cup meant - and what it took out of him. He considered becoming the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963, but ultimately left himself off the roster, despite a strong season that included a win at the Travelers Championship and a spot in the Tour Championship.
“With everything going on, I’m proud of the way I played,” Bradley said. “But when you factor in losing the Ryder Cup, it’s an F.
You’ve got to win that. It’s a different kind of grade.”
That loss clearly cut deep. Bradley called it “the darkest time” of his life, professionally and personally. And even now, months removed from the event, the emotional toll hasn’t fully faded.
“There’s always a letdown after a Ryder Cup, even if you win,” he said. “The emotions are so extreme.
It’s like a Ryder Cup hangover - you’re exhausted, you’re down. It takes a toll on you.”
Bradley’s honesty is striking - and it’s a reminder of just how much the Ryder Cup means to the players, especially those tasked with leading the charge. Whether he gets another chance or not, one thing’s clear: the fire’s still burning.