Will Keegan Bradley Shock Golf by Naming Himself a Ryder Cup Pick?

The buzz around Keegan Bradley’s upcoming Ryder Cup captain’s picks just got more interesting.

PGA Tour pro Michael Kim publicly shared his prediction—and it includes Bradley himself. With picks expected soon, the idea of the USA naming a playing captain is sparking serious debate.

Michael Kim’s Bold Call

Michael Kim told his 190,000 followers on X that he believes Bradley will pick himself, alongside Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Sam Burns, Ben Griffin, and Patrick Cantlay.

In this scenario, recent winner Cameron Young would be left out—making for a controversial lineup.

I have zero insight on the Ryder cup picks but I’m going to guess

JT Collin Griffin Burns Keegan Cantlay

— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) August 26, 2025

Why Bradley Might Choose Himself

Bradley’s inclusion could be fueled by several factors: a strong late-season run capped by a top-10 at the Tour Championship, his proven match play grit, and the dramatic redemption arc of correcting his 2023 omission.

A playing captain narrative would instantly become one of golf’s most captivating storylines.

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Counterarguments to a Playing Captain

Still, the move comes with risks. Critics argue dual roles could dilute focus and invite accusations of self-bias.

A playing captain hasn’t appeared since Arnold Palmer in 1963—and the added physical and emotional pressure at Bethpage Black isn’t trivial.

Final Thoughts

Michael Kim’s prediction puts Bradley’s name in the center of the Ryder Cup narrative—literally.

If Bradley does name himself, it will be one of the boldest moves in modern golf history. If he doesn’t, the debate will still rage: is Team USA without their captain missing out on firepower, or is it a smarter, focused strategy?