Former European Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance has sharply criticized U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley for considering a dual role as a playing captain at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.
Torrance, a Ryder Cup legend who led Europe to victory in 2002, called the idea “100% chaos” and warned it could be “the worst decision ever” for a captain in the event’s history.
Speaking on the Sky Sports Golf podcast and to Lottoland, Torrance argued that the demands of captaining — such as managing pairings, media obligations, and strategic decisions — make it nearly impossible to also compete effectively as a player.
The 71-year-old Scot highlighted the logistical nightmare of submitting afternoon pairings while still on the course, stating, “You can’t be making decisions halfway around a round while you’re playing.”
Torrance suggested Bradley should relinquish the captaincy to a vice-captain like Jim Furyk and focus solely on playing, given his strong (but fading) 2025 form, including a win at the Travelers Championship in June, and a world ranking of No. 13.
Fellow European Ryder Cup icon, Sir Nick Faldo, echoed Torrance’s sentiments, warning that Bradley risked being labeled “selfish” by fans and media if he plays and the U.S. loses, potentially leaving him with lifelong regret.
Despite Bradley’s insistence that he’ll do “what’s best for the team,” Torrance and other critics, including Rory McIlroy, argue the modern Ryder Cup’s intensity makes the dual role unfeasible, a feat not accomplished since Arnold Palmer in 1963.
As Bradley, currently 11th in U.S. Ryder Cup standings, prepares to announce his six captain’s picks on August 27, the debate over his potential dual role continues to stir controversy, with Torrance’s blunt warning adding pressure to an already contentious decision.
