These are the players who have automatically qualified for the US Ryder Cup team
Half a dozen names are already on the plane to New York for golf’s biggest team event next month.
The Ryder Cup returns September 26–28 in New York, and captain Keegan Bradley has his first six men confirmed.
Automatic US qualifiers:
- Scottie Scheffler – world No. 1, PGA & Open champion
- Xander Schauffele – two-time major winner in 2024
- JJ Spaun – 2025 US Open champion
- Bryson DeChambeau – six major top-10s on LIV circuit
- Russell Henley – season-long consistency rewarded
- Harris English – late push at BMW Championship
Scheffler tops the list, a clear leader after winning two majors this year and sealing the BMW Championship. Schauffele, while winless in 2025, hasn’t missed a cut in 58 events, a streak unmatched since Tiger Woods’ prime.
Spaun arrives in form, having finally grabbed a major title at the US Open after years of close calls. DeChambeau forced his way in from LIV Golf, powered by relentless top-10 finishes in big events.
The final two places went to Henley and English, both steady rather than spectacular, but Ryder Cups have often hinged on players who grind out points.
Who will captain Team USA?
Bradley now faces the bigger decision: his six captain’s picks. Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa and Patrick Cantlay headline the names in contention, with the added subplot that Bradley could even name himself. The last US playing captain was Arnold Palmer in 1963.
How is Team Europe shaping up?
Across the Atlantic, Europe’s team is almost complete. Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Justin Rose and Robert MacIntyre are already assured, while Shane Lowry clings to the final automatic spot with Rasmus Hojgaard in pursuit at the British Masters. Captain Luke Donald will reveal his six wildcards on September 1, with Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Aberg among the likely inclusions.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.