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Rory McIlroy has opened up about his recent US Open heartbreak, revealing the depth of his disappointment after narrowly missing out on his first major trophy in a decade. Despite his near miss at Pinehurst, where he appeared poised for victory, McIlroy’s final moments were marred by missed par putts on the 18th hole, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to overtake him and claim the championship.

 

Speaking at the Genesis Scottish Open this week at North Berwick’s Renaissance Club, the world’s No. 2 ranked golfer offered a seven-word summary of his outlook: “I’m the luckiest person in the world.” McIlroy elaborated, sharing: “There’s not a day goes by that I don’t feel like I’m the luckiest person in the world to get up every morning and be healthy and follow my dream. There’s videos of me at seven years old saying I want to be the best player in the world and I want to win all the majors. To be able to try to make that little 7-year-old boy proud every day is something that I really don’t take for granted. I’m very appreciative of the position that I’m in in life.”

 

Reflecting on his US Open performance, McIlroy admitted: “I got over it pretty quickly. The few days after it were pretty tough at times, but I feel like I’ve done a good job of thinking about it rationally and constructively and taking what I need from it and trying to learn from it. But like for the most part it was a great day. I keep saying to people, ‘It was a great day until it wasn’t’.”

 

Following his defeat in North Carolina, McIlroy took a brief hiatus from the sport to reflect and recompose himself. As a result, he missed several key events, including the John Deere Classic and the Travelers Championship. His return, however, is perfectly timed as he prepares for The Open at Royal Troon next week.

 

McIlroy aims to secure his third victory at The Open, having previously won the title in 2012 and 2014. After a series of average performances between 2015 and 2021, he has recently shown promising form in pursuit of the coveted Claret Jug, finishing third in 2022 and T6 last year in a contest unexpectedly won by Brian Harman, who had long odds of 100/1.

 

Despite the challenges and heartaches, McIlroy continues to demonstrate resilience and gratitude, showing the true character of a champion as he looks ahead to future triumphs.

Colin Montgomerie has ignited a heated debate by challenging Rory McIlroy’s decision-making and the involvement of his caddie, Harry Diamond, in the devastating conclusion that cost McIlroy the US Open title at Pinehurst No. 2.

Montgomerie believes that Diamond should have played a more decisive role in preventing McIlroy’s heartbreaking loss. The Northern Irishman was on the brink of ending a ten-year major title drought but faltered with two critical missed putts on the 16th and 18th holes, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to clinch victory by a single shot.

The Controversial Decision

The criticism of Diamond centers on the choice to use a driver on the 18th hole, deviating from the 3-wood McIlroy had employed in the previous three rounds. This decision resulted in McIlroy pulling his tee shot left into a native area, complicating his approach to the green.

Despite executing a solid chip to give himself a chance at par, McIlroy’s four-foot downhill putt slid agonizingly past the cup, marking his third bogey in the final four holes. This missed opportunity not only cost him the title but also ignited a firestorm of criticism towards his caddie.

Montgomerie’s Strong Words

Montgomerie didn’t mince words in his critique. “He hadn’t [used the driver on 18] all week, and the caddie should have stopped him,” Montgomerie told The Times. He emphasized that DeChambeau was missing fairways consistently on Sunday, turning it into a long-drive competition. The luck favored DeChambeau, but not McIlroy.

Nick Faldo, during commentary, echoed Montgomerie’s sentiments, suggesting that this loss could haunt McIlroy for the rest of his life if he doesn’t secure another major title. Montgomerie shared the same sentiment, admitting that he felt more empathy for McIlroy than for DeChambeau that night.

Responses from the Golf Community

Tiger Woods’ former coach Hank Haney and golf channel pundit Smylie Kaufman also questioned Diamond’s decisions during the closing stretch. However, McIlroy didn’t hold back when addressing these critiques at The Renaissance Club, deeming them unfair. He pointed out that Haney has never been in that position, and Kaufman has experienced it only once. McIlroy emphasized that just because Diamond isn’t vocal doesn’t mean he doesn’t contribute significantly.

McIlroy’s Defense and Swift Exit

McIlroy also faced criticism for his quick departure after DeChambeau’s victory, opting not to stay and congratulate the winner. However, Montgomerie, who captained McIlroy during the 2010 Ryder Cup, defended McIlroy’s actions, calling them dignified. He related McIlroy’s feelings to his own experience at the 2006 US Open at Winged Foot, understanding the profound sense of letting down oneself and others.

 

In conclusion, the debate over McIlroy’s US Open heartbreak has sparked intense discussion within the golf community. Montgomerie’s critique has added fuel to the fire, challenging both McIlroy’s decisions and Diamond’s role in the heartbreaking loss.

Tiger Woods Faces Calls for Retirement as The Open Approaches

As the 15-time major champion Tiger Woods gears up for The Open Championship next week, he faces a blunt call for retirement from Ryder Cup hero Colin Montgomerie. “What the hell is he doing?” Montgomerie asks, reflecting the sentiments of many who have watched Woods struggle through recent tournaments.

 

Despite being plagued by injuries, Woods remains determined to compete in the majors, hoping for one last victory before the end of his illustrious career. However, Montgomerie, a seasoned golfer himself, finds it increasingly difficult to watch the 48-year-old Woods in action.

 

Woods’ participation in only four events this year highlights his ongoing battle with fitness. He withdrew from The Genesis Invitational in February due to flu, finished 60th at The Masters, and missed the cuts at both the PGA Championship and the US Open. These performances suggest that the 82-time PGA Tour winner is a shadow of his former self.

 

Montgomerie was particularly disheartened by Woods’ performance at Pinehurst No. 2 last month. The event, one of the most challenging US Opens in recent history, saw Woods struggle significantly. Montgomerie fears a repeat at Royal Troon next week when the 152nd Open gets underway and urges Woods to retire.

 

“I hope people remember Tiger as he was, with the passion and charismatic aura around him,” Montgomerie told The Times. “There is none of that now. At Pinehurst, he did not seem to enjoy a single shot, and you think, ‘What the hell is he doing?’ He’s coming to Troon, and he won’t enjoy it there either.”

 

Montgomerie, 61, understands the difficulty of walking away from the game. Despite being one of the best players never to win a major – with five agonizing runner-up finishes – he has found some solace in winning three senior major championships. Yet, he remains realistic about the need for Woods to retire.

 

“Are we there yet? I’d have thought we were past there,” Montgomerie said. “There is a time for all sportsmen to say goodbye, but it’s very difficult to tell Tiger it’s time to go. Obviously, he still feels he can win. We are more realistic.”

 

Woods has been battling injuries for many years, further complicated by a high-speed car crash in 2021 that led to reconstructive ankle surgery. While the surgery reduced his pain, it also compromised his mobility. This has created a vicious cycle of inadequate tournament preparation due to fitness issues, resulting in performances unworthy of his legendary status.

 

Following his missed cut at Pinehurst, Woods hinted at the possibility of retirement. “As far as my last Open Championship or US Open Championship, I don’t know what that is. It may or may not be,” he admitted.

 

Despite his competitive spirit and willingness to push through the pain, Woods’ appearances on the biggest stages of golf may soon be coming to an end. The game could soon lose arguably its greatest ever player.

Jon Rahm’s Shocking Defection to LIV Golf Rocks PGA Tour

A Record-Breaking Deal That Shook the Golf World

Jon Rahm’s sudden departure from the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf last December left the golf community in shock. Known for his past criticism of the Saudi Arabia-backed breakaway tour, Rahm’s decision to sign a staggering $500 million (£386 million) contract with LIV Golf stunned fans and players alike. This eye-watering deal, the largest in LIV Golf history, included shares in the tour, access to one of the Saudi Royal Family’s private jets, and a team of 10 personal assistants to cater to Rahm and his family.

From PGA Loyalty to LIV Golf’s Riches

Rahm’s move was unexpected, especially given his previous praise for the PGA Tour’s legacy and his disdain for LIV Golf’s 54-hole format. He had once vowed to stay with the PGA, joining the ranks of loyalists like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. However, the allure of a historic contract proved too enticing. His decision came amidst ongoing discussions about a potential partnership between the PGA and LIV Golf, though a complete collaboration remains distant. Despite LIV players being allowed to compete in the PGA’s four major events, the two tours have yet to fully merge.

The Fallout: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy React

In the wake of his defection, Rahm reached out to his former PGA colleagues. While McIlroy has been publicly supportive, Woods has remained silent, not responding to Rahm’s messages. “Tiger, I texted him… just let him know, ‘Hey, this is a personal decision,’” Rahm told ESPN. “Rory has been supportive publicly of my decision, and he was privately as well.”

Rahm did not shy away from acknowledging the financial motivation behind his move. “This is a new change… how golfers get compensated. I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a big part of it. I’m getting more to play the same sport and have more time,” he admitted.

Struggles on the Course: Rahm’s LIV Golf Performance

Despite his lucrative contract, Rahm’s performance on the LIV Golf tour has been underwhelming. Expected to dominate, the 2023 Masters champion has yet to secure a victory this season. Ahead of the 10th event in Andalucia, Spain, Rahm downplayed the impact of the 54-hole format on his game, though he suggested a switch to 72 holes might be beneficial. Rating his season a “six out of 10,” Rahm emphasized the need for consistency and expressed hope for improvement before the year’s end.

Looking Ahead: A Possible PGA Tour Return

Despite his controversial move, Rahm hasn’t ruled out a return to the PGA Tour. Speaking before the Masters in April, he expressed his enduring affection for the tour. “I still love the PGA Tour and I still hope at some point I can compete there again,” he said. Missing familiar venues like Palm Springs, Torrey Pines, Phoenix, and LA, Rahm remains hopeful for future participation in PGA events, underscoring his personal and familial motivations for joining LIV Golf.

Conclusion

Jon Rahm’s record-breaking defection to LIV Golf has significantly impacted the golf world, illustrating the complex dynamics between financial incentives and professional loyalty. As he navigates his new path, Rahm’s journey serves as a fascinating case study in the evolving landscape of professional golf.

Shocking Claim: McIlroy Says Keegan Bradley Must Drop Ryder Cup Captaincy If He Qualifies

Rory McIlroy has stirred the golf world with his assertion that Keegan Bradley must relinquish his role as Ryder Cup captain if he qualifies to play for the USA in the 2025 edition.

 

Bradley’s appointment as the captain for next year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black surprised many, especially considering his strong familiarity with the course. At 38, Bradley still ranks among the world’s top 20 golfers and narrowly missed being part of Zach Johnson’s selection in Rome. Despite his new role, Bradley has indicated his intent to qualify as a player for the 2025 Ryder Cup, which would make him the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963.

 

However, McIlroy, reflecting on the possibility of taking on dual roles himself for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, believes that such a balancing act is unrealistic. “No, absolutely not,” the Northern Irishman asserted after his opening round at the Scottish Open. “I’ve contemplated it for Adare [in 2027], but there’s too much work that goes into it. I’ve seen what Luke [Donald] went through preparing for Rome.”

 

McIlroy emphasized the demanding nature of the captaincy, stating, “There’s no way you can be as good a captain as you need to be and be a playing captain as well. If you want to be the best captain you can be, you can’t play. And if you want to be the best player, you can’t captain. So it’s one or the other, especially with how big the Ryder Cup has become and how many things you have to do in the lead-up to the event.”

 

Given Bradley’s current ranking at 19th in the world, McIlroy acknowledged his significant chance of making the team. “If he does, I think he’s going to have to give that captaincy role to one of the vice-captains,” McIlroy added.

 

The decision to appoint Bradley came after it seemed Tiger Woods might take up the mantle. However, Woods turned down the role due to other commitments, leaving the PGA in a scramble to replace Johnson. McIlroy admitted that he and his European teammates were taken aback by Bradley’s appointment. “I think disbelief, probably,” McIlroy said, recalling the team’s reaction at a dinner attended by several of Donald’s squad members.

 

Reflecting on Bradley’s selection, McIlroy remarked, “I think Keegan was probably in disbelief at some point too, but [it is] certainly an interesting pick. Definitely, I think a surprise for everyone. But he knows Bethpage very well. He went to university in the area. He’s obviously very passionate about the Ryder Cup. It’s certainly a departure from what the US have done over the last few years, and time will tell if that’s a good thing or not.”

 

As Luke Donald prepares to lead Europe again in New York after a victorious campaign at Marco Simone Golf Club, all eyes will be on how Bradley handles his dual aspirations and whether he will indeed step down from the captaincy if he qualifies to play.

McIlroy’s Contemplation: The Player-Captain Dilemma for the 2027 Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy recently disclosed that he considered taking on the dual role of player-captain for the 2027 Ryder Cup in Ireland but ultimately dismissed the idea. McIlroy firmly believes that it is impossible to excel in both capacities simultaneously during such a prestigious event.

The Player-Captain Challenge

McIlroy expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating, “There’s no way you can be as good a captain as you need to be if you are also lining up as a player in such a huge event as the Ryder Cup.” He highlighted the immense workload and responsibilities associated with being a captain, which he feels would detract from his performance as a player. McIlroy’s stance comes in light of Keegan Bradley’s aspirations to be a player-captain for Team USA.

Keegan Bradley’s Ambitious Goal

Bradley, who will be 38 at the time of the next Ryder Cup, has voiced his intention to qualify as a player for the event while serving as the captain. If successful, he would be the youngest captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963. However, McIlroy is skeptical about Bradley’s plan, suggesting that if Bradley qualifies as a player, he should relinquish the captaincy to one of his vice-captains.

Reflecting on the Demands

McIlroy, who will also be 38 when Adare Manor hosts the Ryder Cup, revealed that he had considered the dual role after the possibility was put forth by someone connected with the European Ryder Cup team. However, he quickly realized the impracticality of the idea, stating, “No, absolutely not. There’s too much work that goes into it.”

He further elaborated, “I’ve seen what Luke [Donald] went through preparing for Rome – there’s no way you can be as good a captain as you need to be and be a playing captain as well.”

The Growing Complexity of the Ryder Cup

McIlroy pointed out the significant evolution of the Ryder Cup, which has become a monumental event requiring extensive preparation and dedication. “It’s one or the other, especially with how big the Ryder Cup has become and how many things you have to do in the lead-up to the event, the week of the event,” he explained.

A Firm Stance on Dual Roles

The four-time Major champion is unequivocal in his response to the suggestion of being a player-captain. “It’s been mentioned and I’ve just said no way because it depends: what do you want? If you want to be the best captain you can be you can’t play, and if you want to be the best player you can be you can’t captain,” McIlroy concluded.

 

With the stakes higher than ever, McIlroy’s decision to focus solely on playing underscores the challenges and demands of leading a Ryder Cup team. As the golfing world looks ahead to the 2027 event in Ireland, the debate on the feasibility of the player-captain role continues, with McIlroy’s insights adding a significant perspective to the discussion.

Oleksandr Usyk’s Brief Reign as Undisputed Heavyweight Champion

Oleksandr Usyk’s reign as the undisputed world heavyweight champion was brief after he handed back the IBF belt, but will more belts be ripped away?

 

The Ukrainian star produced a spectacular victory over Tyson Fury in May to unify the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO titles. However, just a month later, his reign as the undisputed king was over.

 

Contracted to rematch Fury in December, Usyk was unable to make a mandatory defense of the IBF belt, which resulted in Daniel Dubois, the organization’s Interim belt-holder, being upgraded to full champion in June.

 

Usyk confirmed he was relinquishing his IBF title with a video on social media, and Anthony Joshua will challenge Dubois for the IBF belt at Wembley on September 21.

 

Rising Contenders and Potential Threats

 

Former champion Joseph Parker earned a WBO Interim heavyweight strap in March when he beat Zhilei Zhang. The New Zealander is now in a position to push for a mandatory shot at the full world championship.

 

Parker is “next in line” for a crack at the WBO belt, according to his promoter, David Higgins. “Joseph would love to fight the [Fury vs Usyk] winner, of course, but that’s not necessarily to say it would happen yet,” Higgins stated.

 

The WBA has a ‘regular’ heavyweight belt-holder, Mahmoud Charr, who harbors ambitions of fighting for a major title. Additionally, Michael Hunter earned the WBA ‘Gold’ title after a points win over Cassius Chaney.

Sky Sports has contacted the WBO and the WBA to comment on whether Usyk is in danger of being stripped of their belts too.

 

WBC and Future Prospects

The WBC has not named a mandatory challenger for its heavyweight championship. Agit Kabayel won an elimination bout on the Fury-Usyk undercard, but it was not a final eliminator. The WBC confirmed to Sky Sports that its world championship will remain in Usyk’s possession and be on the line in his December rematch with Fury.

 

“The WBC granted the sanctioning of Usyk vs Fury 1 with a rematch. The rematch is supposed to take place in December, and after that, the WBC has absolutely no mandatory contender at this time in any formal manner,” WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman told Sky Sports.

 

“The WBC sanctioned a [Kabayel vs Sanchez] elimination bout as requested by the promoters. He defeated Frank Sanchez, who had been in the top positions for many years and looked great. So he has won already two times in Saudi both by knockout, both have been against top-five contenders. He deserves absolutely to be in a very privileged position. As I mentioned, right now, the WBC only has the rematch between Fury and Usyk as a sanctioned event. Anything further will have to be dealt with by the board of governors.”

 

Potential for Another Undisputed Fight

Will we see another undisputed fight? Sulaiman certainly does not rule out the WBC sanctioning a future fight between the Usyk-Fury rematch winner and Joshua if he overcomes Dubois to claim the IBF belt.

 

“Joshua has been in the limelight for a decade, especially outside the ring. He is a very special person, and he represents the best of boxing inside and outside the ring,” Sulaiman said.

 

“Anthony Joshua is a very special, unique fighter that has been closely associated with the WBC for many, many years. He was the WBC International champion; he defended it several times. The WBC was the first organization to rank him, to rank him in the top 10, the top five. In fact, when he fought [Charles] Martin for the IBF title, he was the No. 2 contender of the WBC. Destiny brought him to another organization and a different route. But we have always had great esteem, respect, and admiration for Joshua.”

 

“Joshua is there, and Kabayel is there. We’re not promoters, so we cannot stage fights. We are being very lenient, very flexible to not interfere. We want the best fights made, that’s it.”

 

Scheffler’s Strategic Shift Ahead of The Open: A Calculated Gamble or Masterstroke?

A Break from Tradition

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is poised to be the man to beat at The Open Championship next week. However, in a surprising move, Scheffler has chosen to skip the Scottish Open, forgoing valuable links golf practice ahead of his bid to win the Claret Jug for the first time.

The Bold Decision:

Scheffler’s absence from the Scottish Open means he will not compete against his rivals at The Renaissance Club. This tournament, cleverly scheduled the week before The Open, provides crucial preparation for the unique challenges of links golf, as opposed to the regular courses in the United States.

Rory McIlroy and the Top Contenders:

This week’s defending champion, world No. 2 Rory McIlroy, emerged victorious last year after narrowly defeating local favorite Robert MacIntyre on the 72nd hole. McIlroy joins three other top-five players in North Berwick: 2022 champion Xander Schauffele, Ludvig Aberg, and Wyndham Clark. Notably, Scheffler is the only top-five player not competing in Scotland.

Recent Performances and Historic Wins:

Scheffler has missed the last three PGA Tour events leading up to next week’s Open Championship. His most recent appearance was at the Travelers Championship last month, where he claimed another victory. With this win, Scheffler joined the elite ranks of golf, becoming only the fifth player to clinch six or more PGA Tour wins in a single season, standing alongside legends like Nick Price, Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh, and Tom Watson. His dramatic playoff win at the Travelers Championship over his good friend Tom Kim at TPC River Highlands was a highlight of the season.

A Change in Strategy:

The decision to skip the Scottish Open comes as no surprise following his remarks post-US Open. Scheffler’s performance at Pinehurst No. 2 was average, tying for 41st place. He admitted that playing a week before a major took a toll on his game, having won the Memorial just days earlier. “I think maybe my prep would have been a little bit better for this week if I was at home,” he stated after the US Open. “I’m obviously not going to skip Jack [Nicklaus’] tournament [The Memorial]. It’s a tournament I love playing. It’s a tournament that I’m humbled to be the champion at.”

Looking Ahead:

Scheffler suggested he might change his approach to major tournaments in the future, saying, “I feel like going forward, I’ll maybe do things a little bit differently in the weeks leading up to the majors, especially when you know it’s going to be a challenging setup at a US Open.” In the meantime, Scheffler has been spotted unwinding on holiday with his wife Meredith and their newborn Bennett, perhaps finding a balance between rest and preparation.

 

As Scheffler prepares for The Open, his strategic shift raises questions: Will this calculated gamble pay off, allowing him to clinch the Claret Jug? Or will the lack of links golf practice be a hurdle too high to overcome? Only time will tell if this masterstroke in planning will lead to his triumph.

CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis is thrilled to be flying to North Berwick for the 2024 Genesis Scottish Open, where she will reunite with Rory McIlroy. On Thursday, Balionis shared her excitement on Instagram, posting a selfie with her stamped passport and wearing a tan Alo cap and sweater. She captioned the post, ‘See ya soon North Berwick,’ along with a heart emoji and a tag for the Scottish Open.

 

Balionis will cover the last two days of the tournament, which runs from July 11 to 14, marking her first public encounter with McIlroy since rumors of their flirtation surfaced. However, this reunion comes on the heels of McIlroy’s reconciliation with his wife, Erica Stoll, who was spotted at the course supporting him early in the tournament.

 

The last interview between Balionis and McIlroy took place at June’s RBC Canadian Open, shortly after McIlroy’s highly publicized divorce from Stoll in May. Their seemingly flirtatious interactions fueled speculations of a potential romance, especially since Balionis—who is married to former NFL quarterback Bryn Renner—was noticeably not wearing her wedding ring during the rumors.

 

Despite the fans’ narrative, the whispers of a romantic connection between Balionis and McIlroy turned out to be unfounded. McIlroy had initially declared his marriage broken and filed for divorce, but he and Stoll ultimately decided to reconcile for the sake of their family. McIlroy addressed the rumors surrounding his personal life, stating, “There have been rumors about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate. Responding to each rumor is a fool’s game. Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realized that our best future was as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”

 

Stoll made her first public appearance since the divorce was retracted, as McIlroy finished the first round of the tournament five under, securing an eighth-place tie to start. McIlroy hopes to redeem himself after his heartbreaking loss to Bryson DeChambeau at the 2024 US Open.

 

The stage is set for an intriguing Genesis Scottish Open, with Amanda Balionis, Rory McIlroy, and Erica Stoll all present. Will the tournament be a straightforward coverage assignment for Balionis, or will the lingering rumors add an unexpected twist to the event? Only time will tell.

Keegan Bradley revealed on Tuesday that Phil Mickelson will play no part in the 2025 Ryder Cup with Team USA, and now the LIV Golf star has had his say on the matter.

Phil Mickelson gave a glowing assessment of Keegan Bradley’s appointment as Team USA captain for the 2025 Ryder Cup, despite being told he will play no part in the event. The PGA of America appointed Bradley as the man to lead the American setup on home soil against their European rivals at Bethpage Black next September. A day later, the 38-year-old conducted his first role as captain, addressing the media and speaking of his appointment at a press conference in New York.

 

During the appearance, Bradley revealed that while he still has a strong relationship with his former partner Mickelson, he has no plans of bringing him into the team as a vice-captain for next year’s event. “I still have a great relationship with Phil,” Bradley said. “I don’t think he’s interested in being a vice-captain, and to be honest with you, he’s a captain someday I think. But I haven’t spoken to Phil, I don’t want to speak for him at all, but I think he’s pretty busy with what he’s doing.”

 

A day later Mickelson responded himself and had nothing but kind words for Bradley, describing the elected captain as ‘incredible’. “I was surprised at the pick, and I think it’s a great pick the more I think about it,” Mickelson said ahead of this week’s LIV Golf event at Valderrama. “He played a lot of golf at Bethpage when he went to St. John’s. His passion for the Ryder Cup is greater than just about any player I’ve ever seen. His love for the Ryder Cup is more than anybody I know. I think he’s going to lead with that type of passion. I think he’s incredible.”

 

Mickelson continued, “I’m really, really happy for him. I think we all are really happy for him knowing how gut-wrenching it was to not be part of the team last year, but to now have the opportunity to lead and go forward I think is great.”

 

There was good news for Mickelson’s fellow LIV members, though, after Bradley confirmed he would consider all of his options, regardless of what tour they play their golf on. “I’m going to have the 12 best players on the team. I don’t care where they play,” Bradley claimed. “We have a mission to win this tournament, and I don’t care about the LIV stuff. I want the best players on the team. By the time we get to Bethpage in 2025, we don’t know how things are going to look.”

 

Bradley emphasized, “As it comes to going to LIV events, if there’s guys that are on the fringe, I’m willing to do that. My biggest concern is having the best players on the team.” Keen to stay out of the off-course politics, he went on, “Again, I think in 2025, by the time the Ryder Cup comes, maybe the golf world looks totally different. I just want the best players on the team. I think it’s silly for the U.S. team to not have the best players.”