Watch: NFL star Eli Manning welcomes Keegan Bradley as new US Ryder Cup captain
Keegan Bradley has been appointed as the new captain of the US Team for the 2025 Ryder Cup. The announcement was made by NFL star Eli Manning in a special welcome video posted on the Ryder Cup's official social media handle.
Bradley, who was part of the 2012 and 2014 Ryder Cup teams, was overlooked in last year's edition despite being a strong contender. However, he now has a bigger opportunity after replacing Zach Johnson as the new US Ryder Cup skipper.
Ryder Cup USA shared a special video on X to welcome Bradley as the new captain. The two-minute video features a voiceover by Eli Manning, where he speaks about being a captain on the biggest stage.
"There's nothing quite like being a captain on the biggest stage in the world, and there's nothing like New York. Bethpage will soon become your Giant Stadium, Madison Square Garden, and Yankee Stadium City. And from this moment forward, Keegan, we welcome you home.
In the clip, Manning speaks about the similarities between him and Bradley and how both of them were passionate about their game. He also takes a subtle dig at Tom Brady as Bradley is a Patriots fan. However, he assures that New York won't care about this during Ryder Cup 2025.
"My New Yorkers only care that you bleed red white and blue and that you win. And you will, Keegan you will," he conlcudes.
For the uninitiated, Manning has been one of the biggest sports figures in New York. He captained the New York Giants and led them to two Super Bowl wins in 2007 and 2011.
Keegan Bradley gets appointed as the new US Ryder Cup captain
On Monday, July 8, John Lindert, the president of the PGA of America announced that Keegan Bradley would lead the US team in the Ryder Cup 2025.
"Keegan's past Ryder Cup experience, strong relationships and unwavering passion for this event will prove invaluable as he guides the U.S. team over the next year and a half," Lindert was quoted as saying via ESPN. "We are confident that with Keegan at the helm, the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup team will compete at Bethpage with the same confidence and determination that has defined his career."
Keegan Bradley has won six times on the PGA Tour, with two of those victories coming last season, which strengthened his case for the Ryder Cup. However, he was heartbroken when US Captain Zach Johnson decided not to pick him. Instead, Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth made their way into the squad despite having underwhelming seasons. Eventually, the US team suffered a humiliating defeat against Europe in Rome.
The 45th Ryder Cup will take place in September next year at Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale. Keegan Bradley will lead the US squad, while Luke Donald will continue as the European team's captain.