The United States Ryder Cup team, led by captain Keegan Bradley, is adopting a different approach to preparation compared to their European counterparts. While Luke Donald and his European team arrived in New York on Sunday for reconnaissance at Bethpage Black, Team USA opted to focus on competition at the Procore Championship in Napa, California, held over the weekend.
Ten members of Bradley’s roster participated in the championship, with only Bryson DeChambeau and Xander Schauffele absent. DeChambeau’s participation was restricted due to his membership with LIV Golf, while Schauffele withdrew last minute to welcome his newborn son, Victor. This weekend proved beneficial for the U.S. team as they engaged in both bonding and competitive play.
Strong Performances Ahead of Ryder Cup
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler delivered a standout performance, claiming victory in the Procore Championship by coming from behind to defeat teammate Ben Griffin by a single stroke. Scheffler’s win sends a strong message to the European team as the Ryder Cup approaches. Teammates J.J. Spaun and Cameron Young also finished in the top 10, while Sam Burns secured a solid tie for 13th place.
As the U.S. players focus on resting and regrouping for the Ryder Cup, which kicks off on September 26, 2023, the European team is dedicating Monday and Tuesday to acclimatizing to the challenging conditions of Bethpage Black.
Strategic Decision-Making for Team USA
Bradley and his players considered emulating Europe’s scouting trip but ultimately chose to prioritize playing together in a competitive setting. Scheffler explained, “It was something we discussed at the beginning of the year. We floated the idea of doing a scouting trip to Bethpage or coming here and playing this event. We felt it would be a little bit more valuable to get all the guys together here this week to play tournament golf in order to stay in shape.”
He emphasized the difference between casual practice and the pressure of tournament play. “For me, there’s just a difference between practicing and playing at home and getting under the gun in a tournament. Especially going into a team event where you play formats that you’re not totally used to with it being match play on Sunday,” he added.
The Ryder Cup is set to be a fierce competition, with the American team seen as the marginal favorites against a seasoned European lineup that secured victory at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in 2023. As both teams finalize their preparations, all eyes will be on Bethpage Black, where strategy, skill, and teamwork will determine who lifts the trophy.