The Ryder Cup is one of golf’s most prestigious and fiercely contested events, and this year’s competition at Bethpage Black in New York is shaping up to be even more dramatic. Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he will attend the opening day of the tournament, scheduled for September 26 to 28, and his presence is already sparking both excitement and debate. Trump revealed the news on Truth Social, claiming the invitation came from the PGA Tour, though it was later clarified that the Ryder Cup is run by the PGA of America. They confirmed that they had extended the invitation, making his appearance official.
In his announcement, Trump went further than confirming his attendance. He also gave public backing to U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley, urging him to name himself as one of the team’s players. Bradley, at 39 years old, is one of the youngest captains in U.S. Ryder Cup history and has not yet ruled out the possibility of including himself among his picks. If he did, he would become the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963, a move that would connect today’s game with one of the sport’s golden eras.
Bradley faces a difficult decision. On one hand, his current form and competitive fire could help the U.S. team as they look to defend the Ryder Cup on home soil. On the other hand, captaining the team is already one of the most demanding roles in golf, requiring strategic planning, pairings, and leadership both on and off the course. Balancing those responsibilities with the pressure of competing as a player would be a challenge unlike any faced in modern Ryder Cup history.
Trump’s endorsement adds a new dimension to that decision. Known for his close ties to golf and ownership of multiple golf resorts, Trump has long positioned himself as a figure within the sport. His appearance at Bethpage Black is certain to draw attention from media and fans alike, amplifying the spotlight already on Bradley as he prepares to announce his captain’s picks.
The Ryder Cup itself promises to be a spectacle. With Europe looking to reclaim the trophy after recent U.S. dominance and the home crowd at Bethpage sure to provide an intense atmosphere, every decision Bradley makes will be closely scrutinized. Trump’s presence will add another layer of intrigue to an event that thrives on rivalry, passion, and national pride.
Whether or not Bradley chooses to follow Trump’s advice and include himself as a playing captain remains to be seen. What is clear is that this year’s Ryder Cup will not only be about the golf—it will also be about personalities, politics, and the weight of history. Fans will be watching closely, not just to see who wins, but to see whether the drama off the course influences the outcome on it.
