It might be a few months away. However, excitement is already building for one of golf’s most electrifying showdowns as the 2025 Ryder Cup heads to Bethpage Black.
Team Europe are riding high after their dominant win in Rome last time out, and captain Luke Donald will aim to repeat the magic in hostile territory. Yet it’s not going to be easy. On the other side, Keegan Bradley takes charge of a stacked U.S. squad eager to reclaim the cup on home soil.
From automatic qualifiers like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler to potential wildcard picks, both teams are shaping up to deliver some sweet golfing drama. This guide breaks down the likely lineups, as well as predicts which team will lift the trophy this September.
Ryder Cup 2025 Team Predictions
Automatic qualifiers are nearly locked in at this stage. Add in that captain’s picks are looming, and both squads are beginning to take shape. Here’s how the European and USA teams could line up for 2025.
Team Europe
Luke Donald’s European side will likely stick with the winning formula from Rome in 2023. That means several familiar faces will return. Rory McIlroy, still riding high after completing the career Grand Slam, is a nailed-on starter and team leader. He’ll be joined by major contenders like Shane Lowry, Tyrell Hatton, Sepp Straka, and Justin Rose. Each brings some much-needed experience and grit to the lineup.
Rising stars Rasmus Hojgaard and Ludvig Aberg offer youthful firepower, while Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm are must-picks despite their LIV Golf affiliations. Expect Tommy Fleetwood, Europe’s Ryder Cup talisman, to be among the first captain’s picks.
Robert MacIntyre and Matt Fitzpatrick also bring strong resumes, with the latter’s U.S. Open title win adding weight to his inclusion – even if it was three years ago. If their form holds through the summer, Nicolai Hojgaard, Matt Wallace, and Thomas Detry could round out the bench.
There’s one big question for Donald to answer: How much risk will he take with form players versus trusted veterans? The latter might win out, considering it’s an away game in front of a raucous Bethpage crowd.
Team USA
It’s true: Keegan Bradley’s appointment as U.S. captain initially raised eyebrows. However, his recent form and Ryder Cup passion could make him a savvy leader.
Another benefit is that his team is packed with world-class options. Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa – automatic locks based on current standings. Bryson DeChambeau’s resurgence and Russell Henley’s consistency earn them projected starting spots, and Justin Thomas, despite mixed form, looks set for another Cup appearance.
Bradley’s captain’s picks will be key. Brooks Koepka and Patrick Cantlay bring experience and big-match temperament to the table. Harris English and Brian Harman could earn spots based on recent results, while Dustin Johnson and Patrick Reed are also in the mix depending on form and team chemistry. Sadly, Billy Horschel’s recent surgery lowers the possibility of him getting his long-overdue chance.
With depth like Jordan Spieth, Tony Finau, Max Homa, and Sam Burns, Team USA boasts unmatched talent. Bradley’s challenge, however, will be building cohesion and handling pressure. This is especially the case given home soil expectations after their Rome defeat.
Who Will Win the 2025 Ryder Cup?
According to current golf betting odds, Team USA are the slightest favorites to win the 2025 Ryder Cup. They currently sit at 8/11, with Europe at slightly longer odds of 11/8. This shows bookmakers are struggling to split the teams.
On paper, the Americans have a deeper talent pool. Their home advantage at the notoriously rowdy Bethpage Black could also explain why the odds are in their favor. However, you cannot overlook Europe as a formidable threat. Their recent dominance in Rome was a testament to their unity and experience.
That said, winning on U.S. soil for Team Europe remains one of golf’s toughest challenges. If Bradley’s picks blend well with his top-tier starters, USA could edge the competition. Yet don’t be surprised if Europe rises to the occasion again. Oh, and don’t discount the tie at 12/1.