Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision

Scottie Scheffler spoke frankly about Keegan Bradley (Image: GOLF's Subpar / Youtubre)

Scottie Scheffler admitted he was baffled by the Ryder Cup appointment of Keegan Bradley - but now understands why the 38-year-old was selected. The golfing world was left surprised when Bradley was unveiled as the captain of Team USA for next year's competition.

Two years previously, the 2011 PGA Championship winner missed out on being a captain's pick for the 2023 competition at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club. Bradley was given the position ahead of the traditional choice, Phil Mickelson, who continues to be a divisive figure ever since he played a role in launching the Saudi Arabian-backed rebel tour LIV Golf.

It's also understood Tiger Woods turned down the opportunity to captain his country for next year's tournament at Bethpage Black, Long Island. While Scheffler was not afraid to say that he did not expect Bradley to be the next captain, the two-time major winner is now completely onboard with the idea.

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During an appearance on the GOLF's Subpar podcast, Scheffler said: "I was definitely a bit surprised. But the more I thought about it I was just getting fired up.

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"I think he's going to be awesome. We were talking to him about the Ryder Cup and just catching up with him about it.

"I mean he's going to be a great captain, he's going to be passionate and he's going to make sure we're in a position to succeed and go out there and play well. I'm excited. I think he's going to do a great job."

Bradley said he will be reaching out to seasoned players of Team USA to provide guidance for upcoming team members, in the same way Mickelson did with him. The six-time major winner was a strong mentor for Bradley when he competed in the 2014 competition. 

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Despite their history, Bradley does not think Mickelson would have any interest in being the vice-captain. The absence of the 54-year-old from the leadership squad will be palpable when the event tees off.

With a new era of Ryder Cup leadership on the horizon for the USA, Scheffler is excited to see what is to come. He added: "I remember when I heard the announcement, I thought, 'that was not the direction I thought they were going to go'. Then I sat there for a few minutes and I was like 'wow, this is going to be awesome, this is going to be really good'.

"We've sat down a few times and talked about it and it was confirmed even more. I think he's going to be amazing."

Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision

Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision

Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision

Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision

Scottie Scheffler gives frank response to Keegan Bradley Ryder Cup decision