Keegan Bradley has appointed Kevin Kisner as a vice-captain for the Ryder Cup, dubbing him a “perfect fit” as Team USA tries to win back the famous trophy.

Kisner, 40, has never played in the Ryder Cup, although he was a member of two victorious Presidents Cup teams. He was also a non-playing vice-captain at last year’s Presidents Cup as the Americans claimed a commanding victory over the International team.

The four-time PGA Tour winner is renowned for his prowess in matchplay, with a knack for getting under his rivals’ skin and a resume that includes a victory the WGC-Dell Technologies Matchplay in 2019.

Kisner is the third vice-captain to be named by Bradley for September’s showdown at Bethpage Black after Webb Simpson and Brandt Snedeker, and 38-year-old Bradley believes the South Carolina native will have a big impact on Team USA.

“Kevin is a great addition to our leadership group and will be a trusted voice throughout the coming months and this year’s Ryder Cup,” Bradley said. “His extensive match-play success and strong relationships make him a perfect fit. I look forward to working with him closely as we get ready for Bethpage Black.”

The Americans were humbled by Luke Donald’s Europeans in Rome in 2023, suffering a 16.5-11.5 defeat at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club. But there are high hopes that they can harness a partisan crowd in New York in the fall to regain the trophy.

Keegan Bradley smiles and walks with the Western Golf Association (WGA) Open J.K. Wadley Championship Cup trophy

Keegan Bradley will lead Team USA in September ( 

Image:

Getty Images)

The selection of Bradley’s vice-captains is particularly intriguing given he is ranked 12th in the Official World Golf Ranking and has a realistic chance of qualifying for the 12-man team. Were he to do so, he would be the first playing captain in the Ryder Cup since a 34-year-old Arnold Palmer in 1963.

Should Bradley play his way onto the team, greater responsibility will surely be bestowed on his vice-captains. How things shake out remains to be seen, but Kisner made clear he is relishing the challenge of helping Team USA exact revenge.

“I am incredibly appreciative of Keegan for this opportunity to help guide the U.S. team at the 2025 Ryder Cup,” said Kisner. “I love matchplay and the Ryder Cup is one of the greatest events in sports. I cannot wait to be a part of it and look forward to doing everything I can to support Keegan, Webb, Brandt and our talented team in September.”

A statement from the PGA of America, which oversees the Ryder Cup team, confirmed “additional vice-captains will be announced at a later date.”