President Donald Trump has inserted himself into the world of professional golf, publicly denouncing the recent appointment of Keegan Bradley as the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup captain, a decision he labeled a “DUMB MOVE.”
The outburst came via Trump’s Truth Social platform on Monday, just days after the PGA of America stunned the golf world by naming Bradley, a 38-year-old, six-time PGA Tour winner, to lead the American team at Bethpage Black in New York. The selection broke with recent tradition, as Bradley has no previous experience as a vice-captain and was not widely considered a frontrunner for the role.
“Wow, but look, you have so many greats that want to be, and should be, Captain of the Ryder Cup Team,” Trump wrote. “They just picked Keegan Bradley. DUMB MOVE – and I know him, and like him, but he is not the right person to lead the Team to victory. America wants to WIN!”
The criticism from Trump, a golf course owner and avid player who has long sought to align himself with the sport’s biggest stars, highlights the divisive and unexpected nature of the PGA’s decision. The role is typically given to an established veteran at the end of their competitive career, often with prior leadership experience in the team room.
Bradley’s appointment is seen as a bold, youth-oriented gamble by the PGA of America, aiming to inject fresh energy into a team that was handily defeated by Europe in Rome last year. Bradley, known for his fiery, passionate demeanor on the course, is a native of New England and is expected to have the home crowd fiercely on his side at the notoriously partisan Bethpage Black course, which is located in Trump’s home state of New York.
However, Trump’s comments underscore a significant faction of dissent. Many observers expected a proven leader like Stewart Cink, who had served as a vice-captain, or a major champion like Fred Couples to get the nod. Tiger Woods, the first choice of many, reportedly declined the captaincy due to the significant time commitments involved as he continues to manage his playing schedule and business interests.
The PGA of America has stood by its decision. In a statement, President John Lindert called Bradley “the passionate leader our team needs,” praising his “unbridled enthusiasm” and deep respect for the event.
Bradley himself has not directly responded to Trump’s remarks but has spoken broadly about the honor of the role. “It is the greatest honor of my professional career to be chosen to lead this team,” Bradley said upon his appointment. “I will give everything I have to this team and this cause.”
The incident ensures that Bradley’s captaincy will begin under an intense spotlight, with his every decision scrutinized not just by golf pundits, but by powerful political figures as well. The “Dumb Move” critique from a former President sets a dramatic stage for the two-year buildup to the 2025 matches, where Bradley will now be tasked with uniting his team and proving his most high-profile critic wrong.