Bradley and Donald Shape Early Ryder Cup Pairings at Bethpage
As the Ryder Cup approaches, Team USA’s captain Keegan Bradley has provided insights into potential pairings following practice sessions at the historic Bethpage Black course. During these initial gatherings, Bradley expressed that he is “90 per cent” confident in his strategy for the competition, which is set to commence on September 29, 2023.
Team USA participated in an 18-hole practice round on Monday, followed by nine-hole sessions over the next two days. During these sessions, Bradley maintained a consistent grouping of players, a tactic aimed at enhancing team chemistry before facing off against Team Europe. Notably, world number one Scottie Scheffler recently secured his fifth victory of the season at the Procore Championship, adding momentum to the team.
Key Pairings Emerge for Team USA
Among the noteworthy pairings, Justin Thomas, the most experienced member of the U.S. team, has consistently teamed up with Ryder Cup newcomers Cameron Young and Ben Griffin. Each day, they have been joined by Bryson DeChambeau, who adds a powerful presence to the group.
Another likely pairing features Scheffler alongside Russell Henley, who previously collaborated successfully during the 2022 Presidents Cup. This duo has been paired with Harris English, a winner in the 2021 Ryder Cup. Additionally, the seasoned pairing of Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele has been retained throughout the practice sessions, with Sam Burns joining them, having previously partnered with Cantlay in 2022.
Only minor adjustments have occurred within the line-ups, primarily involving Collin Morikawa and JJ Spaun. Spaun spent time with Scheffler on Monday and Wednesday, while Morikawa joined the world number one’s group on Tuesday.
Team Europe Prepares with Familiar Faces
On the other side, Team Europe, led by captain Luke Donald, boasts a line-up that closely resembles their previous endeavor, with 11 returning players from the last Ryder Cup. The only change is the inclusion of Rasmus Hojgaard, who replaces his twin brother Nicolai. Donald has indicated that, despite the familiar roster, the specific pairings may vary as the competition progresses.
“Just because we have a very similar team doesn’t mean we are going to roll out the same pairings or the same line-up in foursomes and fourballs,” Donald stated earlier this month. “I think over a two-year period, these players do change. This isn’t certainly a question of rinse and repeat from Rome.”
The practice sessions have also provided some nostalgic pairings for Team Europe. Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, who previously teamed up for a victorious foursomes match, found themselves playing together once again, alongside Sepp Straka and Shane Lowry. Another successful pairing from the last competition featured Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick, who also reunited for practice.
As the teams continue their preparations, they are scheduled for additional nine-hole practice rounds on Thursday, contingent on weather conditions. Captains Bradley and Donald are expected to announce their Friday foursomes pairings at 16:00 local time (21:00 UK time), setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating Ryder Cup.
Live coverage of the Ryder Cup will commence with extensive programming throughout the event, as Team Europe seeks to reclaim the trophy with a historic win on U.S. soil.
