‘I Was Really Hoping To Be In That Role’ – Former Vice Captain Responds To Missing Out On US Ryder Cup Lead Job
Ryder Cup Legend Speaks Out on Stunning Snub for US Captaincy
In a shocking turn of events that has left the golf world buzzing, five-time Ryder Cup player and former vice-captain Stewart Cink has publicly expressed his disappointment over not being chosen as the next US Ryder Cup captain. The 2009 Open Champion, who served as Zach Johnson’s right-hand man during the recent Ryder Cup in Rome, was widely tipped to lead Team USA at the iconic Bethpage Black. However, the PGA of America took an unexpected route, appointing Keegan Bradley, a decision that has sparked intense debate and intrigue among golf enthusiasts.
Stewart Cink’s storied career includes not only his five appearances in the Ryder Cup but also a notable tenure as vice-captain. His experience and dedication to Team USA seemed to make him a natural successor, especially after Tiger Woods, the bookmakers’ favorite, declined the captaincy. Cink’s resume is impressive: a major championship victory, numerous top-three finishes in other majors, and a reputation for his leadership and sportsmanship on and off the course.
Yet, despite Woods stepping aside, Cink found himself overlooked as the PGA of America opted for Bradley, a golfer who continues to compete actively on the PGA Tour. The announcement came as a surprise to many, given that Bradley was not even on the radar of likely contenders. This bold move by the PGA signals a potential shift in their strategy for Ryder Cup leadership, one that prioritizes current players with fresh perspectives over seasoned veterans.
Reacting to the news while preparing for the Scottish Open, Cink did not hide his feelings. In an exclusive interview with Golf Channel, he candidly shared his disappointment: “I’m disappointed that I wasn’t chosen to be the captain, of course. I was really hoping to be in that role. But I love the United States and I love the players. I just have so much respect for the players and the Ryder Cup.”
Despite his personal setback, Cink expressed his support for Bradley, acknowledging the unique energy and passion he brings to the role. “Keegan has got great energy, he’s still playing great, and he’ll do a really good job. I know he wants a team win and – being from New England, with his roots there around New York – I think he’ll be a great captain up there.”
Bradley, who will be 39 when the next Ryder Cup takes place in September 2025, will be the youngest US captain since Arnold Palmer combined playing and captaincy duties in 1963 at the age of 36. This significant change in leadership style has prompted speculation about the PGA of America’s future direction. When asked if Bradley’s appointment marks a deliberate shift towards younger, active players for captaincy roles, Cink was measured in his response: “Could be, I guess. I really don’t know much and would only be speculating, but – yeah – the fact that Keegan’s never been in any kind of assistant role.”
As the golf community digests this unexpected development, the choice of Bradley over more traditional candidates like Cink raises questions about what the PGA of America envisions for the future of the Ryder Cup. Will this new approach reinvigorate Team USA and bring about a fresh era of success, or does it risk sidelining valuable experience and proven leadership? Only time will tell as we look ahead to Bethpage Black in 2025, where Keegan Bradley will have the chance to prove the doubters wrong and lead Team USA to glory.
Stewart Cink’s disappointment is palpable, but his unwavering support for his country and its players remains a testament to his character. As he continues his professional journey, the golfing world will undoubtedly watch closely to see how this pivotal decision impacts the dynamics of one of the sport’s most prestigious competitions.
