2025 Ryder Cup Predictions – TEAM USA

With the Ryder Cup set to return in September 2025, the speculation about who will make the American team is already in full swing. Predicting the lineup this far out—nine months before the first tee shot at Bethpage Black—is no easy task. Players will rise and fall in form, and unforeseen circumstances like injuries could alter the landscape entirely. That said, I’m making these predictions based on the assumption that all players will enjoy a healthy 2025 season.

Bethpage Black, the host venue, adds an extra layer of intrigue. Known for its length and difficulty, it will favor players who can hit it long and thrive under pressure. After suffering a tough defeat in Rome, Team USA will look to regroup on home soil, where they have historically performed well. The New York crowd will undoubtedly play its part in creating a charged atmosphere, which could both motivate and challenge the players.

As for the team composition, I’ve considered form, potential for qualification, and the assumption that LIV players will be eligible to compete. While Keegan Bradley has been playing exceptional golf and has a deep connection to the New York area, he’s made it clear he won’t use a captain’s pick on himself. With that in mind, here’s how I see the roster shaping up, divided into four categories: the locks, the near-locks, the contenders, and the wildcards.

Let’s dive in.

The Locks

1. Scottie Scheffler

   No surprises here—Scottie Scheffler, the world’s best player, is a guaranteed presence on this team. While his team-event record hasn’t been flawless (including the tough loss he and Brooks Koepka endured against Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Åberg in Rome), Scheffler’s talent and consistency are undeniable. This Ryder Cup presents an opportunity for him to step into a leadership role on the course, anchoring Team USA at Bethpage.

   
   

2. Collin Morikawa

   Despite going winless in 2024, Morikawa had one of the most consistent seasons on tour, and he’s primed for a standout 2025. A dependable presence in team competitions, Morikawa’s precision-based game—built around fairways and greens—is the perfect complement to any teammate. While his performance in Rome didn’t match his brilliance at Whistling Straits in 2021, expect him to shine again on home soil, where his meticulous approach will be a huge asset.

   
   

3. Xander Schauffele

   Schauffele enters 2025 with momentum, having secured two major championships in 2024, further cementing his status as one of the most complete players on tour. His well-rounded game makes him a nightmare in match play—Xander simply doesn’t beat himself. Pairing him is easy, as he fits seamlessly with almost any teammate. A key figure in past Ryder Cups, Schauffele’s reliability and ability to deliver under pressure make him an automatic selection.

   
   

4. Patrick Cantlay

   Cantlay, often paired with Schauffele, remains a vital piece of the American puzzle. While their duo hasn’t been as invincible as in the past, Cantlay’s clutch putting and calm demeanor have earned him the nickname "Patty Ice" for a reason. He’s come through in big moments in recent Ryder Cups and will undoubtedly thrive in the electrifying environment at Bethpage. Expect him to rise to the occasion and deliver for Team USA once again.

   
   

5. Bryson DeChambeau

   Rounding out the locks is Bryson DeChambeau. While he may not be everyone’s favorite in the team room, his game is impossible to ignore. DeChambeau had a resurgent 2024 season, including a major win at the U.S. Open, and his length off the tee will be a significant advantage at Bethpage. Though he can be inconsistent in foursomes, pairing him with a steady partner in fourball—someone like Schauffele—could unleash his full potential. Bryson’s penchant for engaging with the crowd will likely amplify the already boisterous Bethpage atmosphere, making him a key player both on and off the course.

Near Locks

6. Justin Thomas

   Justin Thomas remains a fascinating case. After the controversy surrounding his selection for the 2023 team, his game has been steadily improving, and 2025 could see him return to top form. Known as the emotional heartbeat of Team USA, Thomas thrives on the energy of these team events and has a knack for rallying the crowd. Missing out on the Presidents Cup roster may serve as extra motivation for him to earn his spot this time around. The Ryder Cup has historically brought out the best in JT, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him playing a key role at Bethpage.

   
   

7. Brooks Koepka

   While Koepka’s inclusion may spark some debate, his record speaks for itself. With the most major titles of his generation, Koepka has proven time and again that he’s a gamer who rises to the occasion when it matters most. His Ryder Cup record is strong, and he’s exactly the kind of competitor you want in your corner. That said, his form has dipped slightly since his 2023 PGA Championship victory, with a quieter-than-usual run in the majors. Expect Koepka to rebound in 2025, delivering strong performances on the biggest stages and earning his spot on the team not just by reputation, but through results.

Fringe Candidates

This is where things get particularly intriguing. Beyond the top seven players, Team USA’s roster could go in several different directions, and the depth of American golf feels weaker than usual. The question is whether the team will lean on experienced veterans or embrace a youth movement. Either approach could work, but here are the players I predict will fill the remaining spots—likely as captain’s picks.

8. Will Zalatoris

After missing previous team events due to injuries, it’s finally time for Will Zalatoris to showcase his talents on this stage. Known for his elite ball-striking, Zalatoris is a dream fit for foursomes, where precision off the tee and approach play are critical. Pairing him with a player like Scottie Scheffler could be a lethal combination. His switch to the broomstick putter has shown positive results, helping address a past weakness. Add in his fan-favorite status, and it’s easy to see him thriving in the high-energy Bethpage atmosphere.

9. Sam Burns

Burns might seem like a conservative choice, but his consistency and competitive fire make him an obvious contender. He’s embraced the intensity of past team events, thriving in both the Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup. His pairing with Collin Morikawa has proven effective in both fourball and foursomes, which adds to his value. Burns relishes playing the villain role in hostile environments, but with the New York crowd behind him, expect him to feed off their energy and deliver. A captain’s pick seems likely, and his teammates will be thrilled to have him on board.

10. Cameron Young

Young’s 2023 snub was a shocker, especially after Fred Couples had all but confirmed his spot. Now, with the Ryder Cup heading to his home state of New York, Young will be motivated to secure his place. His prodigious driving distance is perfectly suited for Bethpage Black’s layout, and his versatility makes him an asset in both formats. If Young can return to his impressive 2022 form and notch a win or two in 2025, there’s little doubt he’ll claim a spot on this team.

11. Sahith Theegala

Theegala’s Presidents Cup performance might not have met sky-high expectations, but the experience was invaluable for his growth. While his game can be erratic off the tee, his ability to produce bursts of brilliance makes him a potent fourball player. Theegala’s 2024 campaign saw him earn an automatic spot on the Presidents Cup team, and he plays so frequently that he’ll have plenty of chances to amass Ryder Cup points in 2025. His potential to excite fans and make momentum-swinging plays will be a huge asset for the U.S.

The Wild Card

This is where the decision-making gets truly challenging. Plenty of familiar names are in the mix, including veterans who’ve been staples on past teams. Jordan Spieth’s name immediately comes to mind, but his recovery from wrist surgery leaves a big question mark over his 2025 form. Max Homa, a locker room favorite, will be eager to bounce back from a disappointing end to 2024 and prove he belongs. And Tony Finau, with his prodigious length off the tee, seems like a natural fit for Bethpage Black. But with the roster already rich in experienced players, this feels like the perfect opportunity to take a chance on an up-and-coming star who could make a splash.

12. Michael Thorbjornsen

This pick might raise a few eyebrows, but Michael Thorbjornsen’s talent and potential are undeniable. Entering his first full season on tour, he’s already shown he has the tools to succeed at the highest level. His ball-striking is electric—he can absolutely bomb it off the tee, a critical asset for Bethpage Black’s challenging layout. Beyond the power, his all-around game is polished and consistent, making him an intriguing pick for foursomes and fourball formats alike.

Thorbjornsen’s trajectory mirrors that of Ludvig Åberg in 2023—a raw yet undeniable talent whose upside is too great to ignore. Keegan Bradley could see this as an opportunity to integrate a rising star into the team, especially on home soil, where he can thrive under the support of American fans. Plus, veterans like Justin Thomas, passionate about the Ryder Cup tradition, would undoubtedly take Thorbjornsen under their wing, setting him up for future success.

Even if Thorbjornsen ultimately doesn’t make the final team, don’t be surprised if his name comes up during the captain’s picks. His game and ceiling make him a player to watch in 2025.

Notable Absences

While the 2025 Ryder Cup roster is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent history, several notable names are likely to miss out. Whether due to injuries, inconsistency, or simply the stiff competition, these players could find themselves on the outside looking in.

• Jordan Spieth – A Ryder Cup veteran and fan favorite, Spieth’s uncertain recovery from wrist surgery clouds his chances. If he regains form, he could be a late wildcard consideration, but the odds feel slim.

  
  

• Max Homa – Homa will need to rebound after a lackluster finish to his 2024 season. While his presence in the locker room is highly valued, his recent form might make him a tough sell.

  
  

• Tony Finau – Finau’s power would suit Bethpage Black perfectly, but with several veterans already on the team, the door could be open for a younger, fresher face to step in.

  
  

• Russell Henley – A steady performer, Henley’s lack of distance off the tee could be a liability on a course as demanding as Bethpage.

  
  

• Akshay Bhatia – Bhatia continues to knock on the door of team events, but once again, he may be overshadowed by other options.

  
  

• Billy Horschel – Horschel’s competitive fire is undeniable, but qualifying outright seems like a long shot, and his name hasn’t generated much buzz as a captain’s pick candidate.

  
  

• Nick Dunlap – After an impressive rookie campaign, Dunlap might hit a sophomore slump. While his long-term potential is undeniable, 2025 might not be his year.

  
  

• Austin Eckroat – A rising talent who could make waves in 2025, Eckroat isn’t entirely out of the mix. Don’t be surprised if his name is mentioned late in the process.