Keegan Bradley has made a significant move in shaping his leadership team for the 2025 Ryder Cup. US team captain announced the appointment of Brandt Snedeker as his second vice captain, further solidifying his strategy for the prestigious event set to take place at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, from September 26-28, 2025.
This announcement comes on the heels of Keegan Bradley’s earlier decision to name Webb Simpson as his first vice captain, signaling a clear direction for the U.S. team’s leadership.
Brandt Snedeker, a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the Ryder Cup, brings a wealth of experience to the role. At 43, the Nashville native has not only played in two Ryder Cups but also boasts an impressive 4-2-0 record, including a perfect 3-0-0 in the 2016 event where the U.S. triumphed over Europe at Hazeltine National.
His recent recognition as the 2024 Payne Stewart Award recipient further underscores his character, charity, and sportsmanship—qualities that will undoubtedly serve the team well.
Keegan Bradley’s selection
As Keegan Bradley begins to lay the foundation for the 2025 Ryder Cup, his selection of vice captains reflects a fresh approach to leadership. Brandt Snedeker’s appointment, following Webb Simpson’s inclusion in late July, highlights Bradley’s intention to bring experienced, yet untraditional voices into the team’s inner circle.
Snedeker, who will serve as a vice captain for the first time, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity:
“I am so grateful to Keegan and the PGA of America for giving me the opportunity to represent my country in the role of vice captain,” Snedeker said in a press release. “The Ryder Cup is unlike anything in our sport, and I hope to bring the passion and pride to help Keegan deliver his vision of what a Ryder Cup in New York should look like.”
“I am so excited to serve alongside my good friend Webb and know we will do everything in our power to help Keegan and the players be ready for a great competition next September at Bethpage Black.”
Keegan Bradley’s decision to appoint Snedeker is rooted in the latter’s extensive experience and success in team events. The 43-year-old has been a consistent performer on the PGA Tour, with nine victories to his name, including the 2012 Tour Championship.
His Ryder Cup performances have been particularly noteworthy, with Snedeker emerging as the only undefeated American in 2016, contributing significantly to the U.S. team’s 17-11 victory.
The choice of Brandt Snedeker as vice captain is a testament to Keegan Bradley’s strategic thinking. Snedeker’s familiarity with the pressures of the Ryder Cup, coupled with his strong leadership qualities, makes him an ideal candidate to support Bradley’s vision for the 2025 event.
His calm demeanor, ability to connect with players, and experience in high-stakes situations will be invaluable as the U.S. team prepares to reclaim the Ryder Cup on home soil.
“As I’ve started preparing for the 2025 Ryder Cup, I quickly realized that Brandt was someone I wanted by my side,” Bradley remarked. “Having competed in two Ryder Cups, including a stellar individual performance in 2016, Brandt’s experience and insight will surely be beneficial to our team in the months ahead.”
Snedeker’s appointment also aligns with Keegan Bradley’s broader strategy of involving active players who are still competing at a high level. In 2024, Snedeker played in 22 events, which allows him to maintain close relationships with potential team members and provide real-time insights into their form and mindset.
This approach represents a departure from the more traditional route of appointing former players or long-retired veterans as vice captains, signaling a new era in U.S. Ryder Cup leadership.
Moreover, Snedeker’s recent recognition with the Payne Stewart Award highlights his commitment to the core values of golf—character, charity, and sportsmanship. These attributes, combined with his competitive record, make him a role model for younger players and a steadying influence in the high-pressure environment of the Ryder Cup.
As the 2025 Ryder Cup approaches, the leadership choices made by Keegan Bradley will be under intense scrutiny. With Brandt Snedeker and Webb Simpson by his side, Bradley is assembling a team that blends experience with a fresh perspective, aiming to bring the Ryder Cup back to the United States.
Snedeker’s inclusion is a strong indicator that Bradley is committed to building a cohesive, well-prepared, and passionate team ready to take on Europe next September at Bethpage Black.