Keegan Bradley has spoken out about the United States’ loss at the 2025 Ryder Cup, a result that still stings for many American fans.
Expectations were high for the home side, with Bethpage Black expected to play into their hands. But Europe took early control, jumping ahead 3-1 after the opening session, and never looked back.
The visitors built on their strong start by taking the next three sessions as well and headed into singles play with an imposing 11.5-4.5 lead.
The U.S. did mount a comeback attempt in singles, but it was not enough to close the gap. Europe held firm to win 15-13, leaving Bradley under scrutiny for his decisions throughout the week.
His recent remarks suggest that he is still carrying that disappointment, unless you are one of those who think he is just putting on an act.
Ryan Lavner backs Keegan Bradley’s comments after the Ryder Cup
Bradley, who has always worn his pride for the American team on his sleeve, was vocal about what went wrong for the USA, especially during those opening two days. He has already said he will not be able to put it behind him.
Some have questioned whether Bradley’s remarks were a genuine expression of disappointment or an attempt to soften future criticism from American fans.
Ryan Lavner addressed this on the Golf Channel Podcast, standing by Bradley’s sincerity.
“I’m with you. It certainly hurts right now for Keegan Bradley. I do certainly think this is genuine,” the journalist said.
“This is not some sort of attempt at image building or trying to garner sympathy so fans are kinder to him when he returns to the PGA Tour in 2026. I do not think that is the case at all.”
Ryan Lavner feels sorry for Keegan Bradley
Lavner also touched on the contrasting reactions to European captain Luke Donald, who has been praised as one of the greats, while Bradley has faced heavy scrutiny.
Donald’s success has earned him plenty of accolades, and that comes with the territory. But Lavner feels it is harsh to judge the 39-year-old by the same standards.
Not only did he have no control over some American players’ performances, but he might well have been playing instead if not for the PGA of America’s choice to make him captain.
“To me, it just underscores what the modern Ryder Cup is, where if you win, you are feted like a king. Look at Luke Donald; he can do no wrong.
“They might run him back in 2027, and he would certainly be a prohibitive favorite. He’s being talked about with Tony Jacklin as one of the greatest Ryder Cup captains ever.
“If you lose, particularly at home, then you did some moronic things; you made some mistakes; you don’t deserve another chance; you should be nowhere near another Ryder Cup.
“I don’t necessarily believe that is the case. I certainly think Keegan deserves some sort of empathy or sympathy because he didn’t ask for this. He was a backup captain who had no experience.
“Any other US captain probably puts him on that team, and now he’s going to be 41 years old when the next Ryder Cup is played at Adare Manor in 2027. It’s hard not to feel for him.”
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