A lot is going on in the golf world! With two majors coming, and LIV Golf Andalucia, it’s busy! But one news that has garnered a lot of attention is the 2025 Ryder Cup captaincy. The PGA of America honored Keegan Bradley to lead Team USA for the Ryder Cup. This is indeed good news as Bradley loves the course dearly. Then came the possibility of him choosing LIV golfers to play in the team, and he ensured that he would only pick the best ones out there, irrespective of the leagues they play in. On Tuesday, July 9, Bradley commented, “I still have a great relationship with Phil, but I don’t think he’s interested in being a vice-captain—and to be honest with you, he’s a captain someday, I think.” This confession sparked his respect and friendship bond with the 6-time major champion. Now, Lefty has returned the favor.

In a pre-tournament presser at LIV Golf Andalucia, Phil Mickelson became the unlikely hero among fans after he spoke about Bradley with nothing but respect and love. When asked about the second youngest Ryder Cup captain, he replied, “I was surprised at the pick, and I think it’s a great pick the more I think about it. He played a lot of golf at Bethpage when he went to St. Johns. His passion for the Ryder Cup is greater than just about any player I’ve ever seen.”

The 45x PGA Tour winner further added to the praise, stating, “I think he’s incredible. I’m really, really happy for him. I think we are all are really happy for him knowing how gut-wrenching it was to not be part of the team last year, but to now have the opportunity to lead and go forward I think is great.” Lefty extensively praised the 38YO and said that he has a lot of passion and love for the Ryder Cup, probably more than anyone he knows. Pretty big words! Right?

When asked about his 2025 Ryder Cup captaincy on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, Mickelson bluntly emphasized that he was not the right guy to lead the team: “I’m a very divisive character right now, if you will, and I understand that.” Given his move to LIV Golf, Mickelson was the US vice-captain at the 2021 Ryder Cup but did not feature in the 2023 event. Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka was the only LIV player to feature in the 2023 US team, thanks to his stunning winning performance at the 2023 PGA Championship.

Some fans were, however, not satisfied by the decision of the PGA of America. They called it a ‘bad idea’ and gave their view on who should take the helm for Team USA in the upcoming Ryder Cup. Mickelson’s reputation as a class act is well-acknowledged among golf fans, and his praise for Bradley further solidified his image. Mickelson has never shied away from praising his fellow golfers, be it for their incredible performances, or victories. This gesture by Phil Mickelson indeed won hearts! 

How fans showed their remarks about Phil Mickelson’s gesture 

Fans appreciated Phil Mickelson’s praise for Keegan Bradley, viewing it as a sign of mutual respect among top players. One X user commented, “Lefty is spot on as usual. It’s refreshing to hear from a professional golfer praising another professional golfer.” The reaction reflected admiration for Mickelson’s unwavering sportsmanship, which is unusual these days. In the realm of LIV Golf vs. PGA Tour, it is often seen that the golfers from the two leagues are praising each other. Another fan noted, “Class acts as always👍,” reflecting a similar emotion.

Fans expressed their excitement, and one said, “Love this from Phil. So cool to see everyone say the same thing about KB. Passion.” Last year, when Bradley failed to make the Ryder Cup team after winning the 2023 Travelers Championship and the 2022 Zozo Championship, he was devastated. He was hurt, but it did not stop him from supporting his team. This goes to show how passionate he is about the patriotic showdown.

Taking on the same emotion, another supporter added, “KB’s love for the RC is contagious. The whole team is going to catch it. LFG! 🇺🇸” The atmosphere last year in the American dressing room was said to be very tense. In 2025, it might not happen as Bradley could spread his contagious patriotic passion and motivate the American golfers to win at Bethpage.

One user recalled the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah, where Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley had a successful partnership before Mickelson decided to rest for the third match. “Phil and Keegan won two straight matches at Medinah in the Ryder Cup there, and Phil decided in advance not to play the third match. Killed their Mojo and the Americans lost.” This decision is often discussed in the context of Europe’s historic comeback from a 10-4 deficit, ultimately winning the Ryder Cup. 

One fan suggested that Mickelson himself should take on a leadership role, given his experience and respect within the sport. As he puts it, “Well said, Phil. And you should be the captain too.” Mickelson is a great captain, and the thoughts he has for his LIV team, HyFlyers GC, are a testament to that. He wishes his team and every LIV team to have home grounds to feel more connected to the crowd. Truly, the thought of a captain!

Another fan humorously proposed, “He needs to bring on Phil as a vice-captain and John Daly as the director of Fan Engagement.” This comment highlights the desire to see Mickelson in a significant role given his expertise while adding a playful touch with the inclusion of John Daly, famous for his charismatic personality.

Do you agree with Phil Mickelson’s assessment of Keegan Bradley’s passion for the Ryder Cup? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.