Countdown to the Ryder Cup: 10 Players Fighting for a Spot on the Team

As of now, we stand just 100 days away from the thrilling spectacle that is the Ryder Cup, set to take place at the historic Bethpage Black. Currently, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy have already secured their positions on Team USA and Team Europe, respectively. But as the cut-off date approaches, the pressure is mounting for many players vying for the remaining slots. Several seasoned veterans, who have previously worn the national colors, may find themselves sweating over selection due to recent performance dips. With so many competitive players seeking a spot, the next few months will be crucial.

Understanding the Selection Process

The selection for the Ryder Cup has a multi-faceted process. Six players from each team will qualify through the Ryder Cup Rankings, but there are traditionally a few players who are anticipated to be selected as captains’ picks. As we move towards mid-June 2025, some high-profile names, including Jordan Spieth and Jon Rahm, are surprisingly low on the rankings at 22nd and 17th, respectively. Given their history and Ryder Cup experience, keep an eye on them for potential captain selections.

The coming months are bursting with significant tournaments leading up to the key cut-off point at the BMW Championship in mid-August. These events will play a pivotal role in shaping the final roster, and numerous Ryder Cup points are available for the taking. Players who have been performing well in the recent season will not only improve their rankings but also strengthen their cases for selection.

Players on the Hot Seat: Team USA

Tony Finau (19th in Ryder Cup Standings)

Tony Finau, a two-time Ryder Cup competitor, last donned the USA colors in 2021, finishing with a mixed record. His faltering performance in the 2025 season has him currently standing at 19th in the Ryder Cup rankings. While several American players are struggling to find form, Finau must significantly step up his game in the coming months to secure a captain’s pick. Historically, he has proven to be a clutch player, but a lack of top finishes this season poses a serious threat to his hopes.

Wyndham Clark (23rd)

Wyndham Clark made his mark by winning the US Open in 2023 and put in a commendable performance during the last Ryder Cup in Rome, contributing 1.5 points to Team USA. However, his form has dipped markedly this season, landing him at 23rd in the Ryder Cup standings. His quest for a spot on the upcoming team will hinge on elevating his performance, especially considering the scrutiny over his on-course antics. A strong finish in upcoming tournaments could put him back in contention.

Max Homa (35th)

Max Homa shone brightly at the 2023 Ryder Cup, where he amassed 3.5 points. Yet his form has since declined, reflected in his current 35th position in the Ryder Cup rankings. Making matters more concerning, Homa’s 2025 season has seen him miss several cuts and finish poorly in tournament standings. If he wishes to alleviate worries of exclusion from the team, Homa needs to rediscover his form before the Ryder Cup.

Rickie Fowler (44th)

Rickie Fowler brings a wealth of Ryder Cup experience, having participated in the event five times. Yet, his struggles post-2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic victory have resulted in only a couple of top-10 finishes over the past two seasons. Currently, Fowler sits at 44th in the rankings. Although he has shown flashes of brilliance, including a recent top 10, he’ll require convincing performances in the coming months to regain his place in the team.

Brooks Koepka (65th)

Despite being a Ryder Cup stalwart since 2016, Brooks Koepka finds himself at a precarious 65th in the current standings. His involvement with the LIV Golf League complicates matters as it does not contribute to Ryder Cup points accumulation. However, Koepka’s talents and proven success in major tournaments could lead him to secure a captain’s pick if he demonstrates strong performance in the remaining events.

Players on the European Side: Rising Challenges

Matt Fitzpatrick (32nd)

Three-time Ryder Cup competitor Matt Fitzpatrick has faced declining form in 2025, finding himself in 32nd on the Ryder Cup ranking list. However, recent improvements, including a commendable performance at the PGA Championship, could pave the way for his recognition as a potential captain’s pick. Fitzpatrick’s experience and skill make him a valuable asset to any team.

Nicolai Hojgaard (33rd)

Nicolai Hojgaard debuted in the Ryder Cup in 2023 but has struggled to find consistent form in 2025, currently sitting at 33rd. After some promising starts early in the season, a string of missed cuts has diminished his chances of making it back into the European squad. If Hojgaard hopes to be considered, he’ll need to find a way to elevate his game in the months leading up to the Cup.

Matthieu Pavon (73rd)

Following a stellar 2024 season, which included a first PGA Tour victory, Matthieu Pavon has struggled significantly in 2025, finding himself languishing at 73rd in the Ryder Cup rankings. Changes in his coaching staff and difficulties finding form have made securing a Ryder Cup spot challenging. Should he recapture his previous momentum, he might be back in the conversation for a potential spot.

Sergio Garcia (172nd)

Sergio Garcia is a name synonymous with the Ryder Cup, possessing the record for the most points in the competition’s history. However, after joining the LIV Golf League, many speculated that his chances of participating in the Ryder Cup had vanished. With Garcia returning to the DP World Tour, he has the opportunity to qualify for selection again. However, falling short of qualifying for the US Open highlights the uphill battle he faces in securing a place on the team.

Conclusion: The Race Against Time

The countdown to the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black is heating up, and the competition for spots on the teams is fiercer than ever. While established stars like Scheffler and McIlroy have guaranteed their places, many others must step up their game in the next few months if they wish to claim their spots. Expectations are high, and upcoming tournaments present ample opportunities for both seasoned veterans and emerging talents to enhance their selections. As the event date approaches, the pressure will only continue to mount for all players involved. Whether they can deliver under pressure remains to be seen, but the stage is set for an unforgettable Ryder Cup showdown.