Scottie Scheffler sets record straight on Ryder Cup captaincy decision

Jack Otway
Fri, 01 May 2026 08:44:47 +0000

Scottie Scheffler has disclosed that he played no role whatsoever in the selection of Jim Furyk as Team USA's captain for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.

Speaking before this the Cadillac Championship in Miami, the world's top-ranked golfer confirmed he discovered the appointment simultaneously with everyone else.

"No, I have no input at all," Scheffler stated. "I found out when you did."

Furyk, the 55-year-old former US Open champion, was confirmed as captain last Friday by the PGA of America. He previously led the American side during their 2018 defeat to Europe in Paris.

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The American star made clear that the governing body holds complete authority over captaincy decisions rather than the players themselves.

"Would I like to have input? If they want me to have input, then I can have input," he explained.

"But the PGA of America runs the Ryder Cup, and it's not the PGA Tour, it's not the players, it's the PGA of America, it's not us."

He added with a touch of humour: "So if they want my opinion, they have my phone number, I'm sure. I had to fill out a bunch of forms to play in the tournament."

Scheffler noted that a Ryder Cup committee exists comprising three PGA of America executives alongside three PGA Tour players, with Jordan Spieth among those serving.

He indicated plans to discuss the committee's workings with Spieth in future.

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Furyk's appointment came after Tiger Woods withdrew from consideration for the captaincy.

Woods had been widely regarded as the leading candidate to succeed Keegan Bradley but opted to step away from golf following his car crash in March.

Furyk now faces a formidable challenge in securing an away victory for the Americans. Team USA will arrive at Adare Manor next year seeking to reverse their fortunes after suffering consecutive losses at both Rome and New York.

Questions have emerged regarding whether Furyk represents the ideal choice to restore American dominance in the competition following their 2018 defeat.

Despite the scrutiny surrounding his appointment, Scheffler offered a strong endorsement of Furyk's capabilities. The pair worked together during the 2024 Presidents Cup, leaving Scheffler impressed by the veteran's approach.

"Yeah, Jim and [his wife] Tabitha are really great people," Scheffler said.

"Jim is a really good leader. He's extremely organised in the way he does things."

Scheffler highlighted Furyk's unparalleled involvement in the biennial contest, having participated in every Ryder Cup since 1997 as either a competitor or in a leadership role.

"I think he brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the table," he added.

"He has a way that he likes to do things and he's very experienced in that role. I think he's going to do a great job."