DeChambeau’s Ryder Cup Role: How Bradley Uses the X-Factor.

Prior to the deadline for automatic qualification and the elimination of fringe contenders, Ryder Cup team leader Keegan Bradley of the United States communicated definitively that Bryson DeChambeau would secure a spot on the squad at Bethpage Black, irrespective of subsequent events during the summer season. Although the two-time U.S. Open victor was among the top half-dozen players poised for automatic selection, the remaining PGA Tour tournaments made his berth, based solely on merit, far from guaranteed.

Bradley assured DeChambeau that he was a secure addition to the American team.

“Bryson will be pivotal in our pursuit of Ryder Cup victory,” the captain affirmed.

At The Open Championship, during what would be his final opportunity to assess DeChambeau, Bradley conveyed assurances that the powerful right-hander would be joining him in a matter of months. He strategically left handwritten notes in lockers at Royal Portrush, hoping to instill zeal in those set to represent the nation in red, white, and blue in New York.

“This year is serious,” DeChambeau declared at The Open. “We’re fed up with the situation. We’re tired of defeats.”

For DeChambeau, this year’s Ryder Cup signifies his return to the competition following his absence from the 2023 squad. His spirit should be elevated, as he was overlooked that summer despite a commendable showing at the PGA Championship and a triumph at LIV Golf Greenbrier, where he recorded a final-round score of 58. DeChambeau secured a victory at LIV Golf Chicago just a week before the United States was defeated by Europe in Rome.

DeChambeau’s exclusion by then-captain Zach Johnson ensued after the 2021 Ryder Cup, in which he partnered with Scottie Scheffler, who, at that point, was an inexperienced PGA Tour player making his debut in the event. Together, they secured 1.5 points out of a possible 2 in their four-ball matches, with DeChambeau taking on a supportive role. He further contributed a full point on his own in Sunday’s singles.

Of course, the present-day Scheffler is vastly different from his past self. Now ranked No. 1 globally and a four-time major champion, pairing Scheffler alongside DeChambeau no longer seems as fitting unless Bradley intends to unite two of his strongest players – a potentially risky strategy.

According to Caesars Sportsbook, DeChambeu (5-1) is projected to be the second-highest American points scorer, trailing only Schefler (2-1).

With DeChambeau absent, Scheffler has distinguished himself in foursomes alongside Russell Henley (1-1-0 in the Presidents Cup) and his close companion, Sam Burns, in fourball matches, where pairing strategies are less intricate. 

Bradley possesses the insight to effectively pair his top player, but the equation becomes considerably more complex when DeChambeau is factored in. Although it may appear exaggerated, Bradley’s tactical integration of the 31-year-old could well determine the outcome of the Ryder Cup.

Bryson DeChambeau in the Ryder Cup

“I believe foursomes presents a more challenging pairing scenario due to the increased complexity,” Bradley commented at the Procore Championship. “The golf ball is a major factor. Compatibility in personalities is crucial in foursomes because it’s a notably tougher format. … Nevertheless, we have a history of successful foursomes pairings.”

As Bradley stated before the United States’ last preparatory event, several possibilities exist for deploying DeChambeau in foursomes – based on equipment, personality, or statistical congruence. If he can harmonize these aspects, Bradley might well discover a winning combination.

The significance of the DeChambeau selection is further underscored by the fact that foursomes will initiate both Friday and Saturday mornings. In 2023, Europe dominated foursomes with a 7-1 record, while the U.S. achieved a 6-2 result at Whistling Straits two years prior. A strong beginning is essential for securing the Ryder Cup, and DeChambeau is likely to participate in foursomes despite his career record of 0-2-0 with Mickelson and Woods as partners in 2018.

In terms of equipment compatibility (specifically, the golf ball), DeChambeau would be aligned with Cameron Young. As another user of a Titleist prototype known as the Pro V1x Double Dot, Young claimed victory at the Wyndham Championship in his debut week with this custom performance option. A pairing with Young would eliminate a major variable, enabling both players to feel confident addressing the ball. 

However, Young’s statistical profile closely resembles that of DeChambeau. Essentially, both players are distinguished by their long drives and proficient putting. Iron play can be inconsistent, and struggles around the green are not uncommon. In contrast, their personalities are markedly different, which might prove advantageous for DeChambeau, depending on his level of excitement.

This is where Justin Thomas could play a role. Among the 11 other members of Team USA, who is not only equipped to handle the spectacle that follows DeChambeau but also able to thrive within it? Thomas may be uniquely suited for the task. If the goal is to accelerate from the start, a DeChambeau and Thomas partnership could be logical.

Statistically, their long-term skill sets are complementary. Thomas excels with wedges and demonstrates exceptional skill around the green, which aligns well with DeChambeau’s strengths and, crucially, addresses his weaknesses. The same applies to Thomas, whose driver performance has been less consistent in 2025. 

The equipment match might not be perfect, but Thomas does play the Pro V1x and requires a foursomes partner given Jordan Spieth’s absence from the competition.

Ultimately, Bradley’s DeChambeau predicament will remain unresolved until the announcement on Wednesday evening. Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele are expected to partner, as are Scheffler and Henley. However, when DeChambeau’s name is revealed, a moment of uncertainty will linger until his partner is finally disclosed.

In fourball, Bradley can grant DeChambeau more flexibility. Ben Griffin expressed to CBS Sports this summer his desire to play with DeChambeau, which, if it happens, would most likely be in fourball. Griffin appears to enjoy the spotlight and would offer DeChambeau another chance to guide a rookie, similar to what he did in 2021. The same holds true for another rookie, J.J. Spaun.

Regardless of the choice, it will significantly impact the United States and its prospects of reclaiming the Ryder Cup. A suitable partner could unlock DeChambeau’s full potential in both playing formats, thereby maximizing the Americans’ overall potential.

“He’s been remarkable,” Bradley observed about DeChambeau leading up to the Ryder Cup. “He’s willingly gone above and beyond for the team. It reflects on what a good teammate Bryson is. It’s really admirable to witness … it’s convenient for the players to come here and attend dinners. Bryson has to travel by plane to attend these meetings, and I think it shows his commitment to the team. 

“He’s going to be a valuable asset to us. Besides being a talented player, he’s fun to be around. He’s great with the younger players. We enjoy seeing Bryson in a setting outside the golf course as well.”