The Ryder Cup Decision: Keegan Bradley's Critical Choices

The PGA Tour's season-long FedEx Cup champion will be crowned at the Tour Championship, teeing off at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta. World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler won't get starting strokes this time, as the tour has altered the format, with all 30 golfers starting at even par.

With the 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York just over a month away, the stakes are high for many golfers. Six golfers have already secured their spots on the U.S. team: Scheffler, U.S. Open winner J.J. Spaun, two-time major champion Xander Schauffele, LIV Golf League captain Bryson DeChambeau, and PGA Tour veterans Russell Henley and Harris English.

U.S. team captain Keegan Bradley will make six captain's choices on August 27, three days after the final round of the Tour Championship. The big questions are: Will Bradley choose himself to play at Bethpage Black? Who are the locks to make the team? Who are the under-the-radar golfers vying for a spot?

Should Bradley Pick Himself?

Mark Schlabach believes Bradley will ultimately pick himself, as he is one of the 12 best American golfers right now. Bradley's competitive nature, familiarity with Bethpage Black, and support from New York fans make a strong case for his inclusion.

Paolo Uggetti points out that Bradley's decision to pick himself could add immense pressure, making it a 'damned if you do, damned if you don't' situation. Despite the challenges, many fans seem to favor Bradley picking himself.

Under-the-Radar Golfer to Make the Team?

Schlabach highlights Brian Harman as a deserving candidate, given his recent performances and match-play experience. Sam Burns, with his strong putting skills, is another contender who could make a significant impact.

Uggetti suggests Maverick McNealy, who has been consistent this season with multiple top-10 finishes, as a potential pick. McNealy's performance at the Tour Championship could solidify his case.

What's More Important: Recent Form or Ryder Cup Experience?

Uggetti argues that while both are important, Ryder Cup experience slightly outweighs recent form. The unique pressures of match play and the Ryder Cup environment make prior experience invaluable.

Who Are Your Six Picks for the U.S. Team and Why?

Schlabach's picks include Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Patrick Cantlay, Cameron Young, Sam Burns, and Brian Harman, emphasizing a mix of experience and recent form.

Uggetti would choose Justin Thomas, Ben Griffin, Collin Morikawa, Patrick Cantlay, Cam Young, and Chris Gotterup, balancing past success with current momentum.

As the Ryder Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Keegan Bradley's decisions, which could shape the U.S. team's chances at Bethpage Black.