Woodland Joins Bradley's Ryder Cup Brain Trust
Major winner named final U.S. vice captain for 2025 showdown at Bethpage
Las Vegas - Gary Woodland is no stranger to golf’s grandest stages—but this September, he’ll be taking on a new role. The 2019 U.S. Open champion has been named as the fifth and final vice captain for the United States Ryder Cup team by skipper Keegan Bradley.
The appointment, announced from Ryder Cup HQ in Frisco, Texas, rounds out a leadership group that includes fellow vice captains Jim Furyk, Kevin Kisner, Webb Simpson and Brandt Snedeker. With just under three months to go until the biennial clash at Bethpage Black, the U.S. team room is taking final shape.
“I have an incredible amount of respect and admiration for Gary,” said Bradley. “He’s still out there competing at a high level, and he knows exactly what it takes under pressure. He’s going to be an asset to our team in every way.”
This marks Woodland’s Ryder Cup debut in any capacity. Now 41, the Kansan was part of the victorious U.S. side at the 2019 Presidents Cup in Australia, but never earned a Ryder Cup start as a player.
“I’m extremely excited and grateful,” Woodland said. “Keegan’s passion is contagious. I’m all in to help our team succeed in New York.”
A four-time PGA TOUR winner with 56 career top-10 finishes, Woodland captured the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach and has long been one of the Tour’s steadiest performers. Earlier this year, he received the 2025 PGA TOUR Courage Award, a testament to his strength and perseverance in overcoming serious health challenges to continue contributing to the game.
As the Ryder Cup returns to U.S. soil, Woodland’s blend of competitive grit and calming presence will be welcome at Bethpage—a venue known for its edge, its passion, and its pressure.