Keegan Bradley is currently shouldering the immense pressure of representing American golf, a burden that will only intensify as the Ryder Cup draws near.
Fortunately for him, he’s not facing it alone. Backed by a strong network of mentors and allies, Bradley has the support not just to endure the spotlight, but to thrive in it.
The legendary Tiger Woods undoubtedly stands out in Bradley’s list of supporters. Despite not having an official role within the team, Woods has been an extremely valuable advisor.
“I’ve spoken to Tiger a bunch. I spoke to him this morning on the phone,” Bradley said, according to The Mirror. “He’s been very helpful. Tiger has always been really helpful to me. He’s a great voice to hear and he’s been nothing but — he’s been reaching out to me helping me, which has been amazing.”
Golf.com cited recently an anonymous source close to the American team to highlight the role Woods has played in the Ryder Cup preparation process.
“He (Woods) is being consulted,” the source told Golf.com. “And I know he feels like he’s a part of Keegan’s decisions and how he’s thinking about it.
Tiger Woods of the US (R) and Keegan Bradley of the US (L) watch the ball on the third hole during the third round of the PGA Zozo Championship golf tournament at the Narashino Country…
Tiger Woods of the US (R) and Keegan Bradley of the US (L) watch the ball on the third hole during the third round of the PGA Zozo Championship golf tournament at the Narashino Country Club in Inzai, Chiba prefecture on October 27, 2019.
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Tiger Woods Has Backed Keegan Bradley from Day 1
It’s no surprise that Bradley has sought Woods’ assistance in every way possible. The 15-time major champion’s experience is a resource that gives him authority in all matters related to professional golf, so much so that he was the first choice considered to lead Team USA at Bethpage Black.
Woods declined the captaincy, citing his other responsibilities on the PGA Tour. Since then, he has declared his unconditional support for Bradley’s leadership.
Shortly after Bradley was officially appointed to the position, Woods shared his opinion on the decision.
“I think Keegan is going to be a great leader,” Woods said, according to Today’s Golfer. “He’s very passionate about what he does. He’s very passionate about the event. I think that this is going to be probably a turnover year for us for the captaincies, whether it’s the captain itself or his vice-captains. I think this is the natural progression, one we’ve been looking forward to, and I think it’s that year.”
The American team is almost complete this week at the Procore Championship, as part of their preparation for the biannual event. Bradley isn’t playing, but he’s at the Silverado Resort to see his players’ fitness firsthand.
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