Paul McGinley: Ryder Cup Playing Captain Impossible Today

Paul McGinley thinks being a playing captain at the Ryder Cup today is “impossible.”

The last time someone did both roles was in 1963 when Arnold Palmer led his team to a big win over Great Britain.

Palmer had a mixed record that year, winning some matches and losing others.

Since then, older players have watched as younger ones compete for their country. But now Bradley, who will be 39 in 2025, wants to play on the team if he qualifies.

Bradley said: “I want to play on the team. I feel like I’m still in my prime and can make it.”

“I won’t pick myself unless the team insists. But even then, I doubt it would happen. I want to earn my spot with points.”

Challenges of Dual Roles:

McGinley, who led Europe to victory in 2014 without playing, believes doing both jobs would help the other side keep the trophy.

Talking to Damon Hack from Golf Channel, McGinley said: “If America has a playing Ryder Cup captain, we in Europe would be happy.”

He added that focusing is key at this level of golf and trying to do both roles makes it very hard.

Fans might think it’s too risky for Bradley to try being both player and captain.

“If you’re trying to play in such a tough environment like the Ryder Cup while making decisions… it’s almost impossible,” McGinley concluded.

Bradley’s selection came after Tiger Woods declined following talks with PGA of America. They chose Bradley over Stewart Cink, who hoped for the role himself.

What do you think about Bradley’s chances?