Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images
Team USA lost to Team Europe in Italy at the Ryder Cup, but let’s re-pick this team and choose the men who would have ended the drought.
For a moment, let’s try and forget about the embarrassing loss that Team USA suffered at the hands of the Europeans at the Ryder Cup.
In this alternate universe, all 12 picks are captain picks, and you are in charge of them.
The ultimate goal is to beat Team Europe, who will have the same members on its team—for this rhetorical narrative.
What 12 guys would give the Americans the best chance to win overseas?
Here is the Ryder Cup team we would have put together if there were no rules involved:
Scottie Scheffler
Despite his putting woes, he is still one of the best players on tour, and we could pair him with an ideal putter for the first two days.
Max Homa
This rookie has been on his ‘A-game’ all year and is trustworthy enough to handle a foreign Ryder Cup.
Brooks Koepka
He won the PGA Championship, and his game fits Marco Simone Golf & Country Club nicely.
Keegan Bradley
As one of the best PGA Tour putters, he would be one of the first selections. His passion for the Ryder Cup and experience would be key, too.
Patrick Cantlay
He is a vital Ryder Cup member and a fantastic golfer in match-play situations.
Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images
Members of the 2023 American Ryder Cup team.
Brian Harman
That Bulldog mentality is what Team USA needs in the Ryder Cup.
Justin Thomas
Regardless of what people think, the guy loves match play, and his grit is good for Team USA.
Cameron Young
Another rookie, but is someone who has the fiery passion to be successful.
Dustin Johnson
No, he did not play well in three of the four majors, but that 5-0-0 record at Whistling Straits in 2021 makes him appealing. He would be the only other LIV Golf guy on this team.
Xander Schauffele
When he gets going, it’s hard to stop him. A great teammate with experience as well.
Sahith Theegala
Before anyone says anything, he is a stud and the future of this sport. Let’s get him some experience. Theegala would work well with anyone on this team as a match-play partner.
Tiger Woods
The 15-time major champion is the ultimate guy who could rally the troops. With this young squad around him, the Cup would return to the States.
Who would you put on Team USA? What do you think the winning score would have been with this lineup?
Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. You can follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports for more golf coverage. Be sure to check out @_PlayingThrough too.
