Charles Esther
J.J. Spaun, the U.S. Open champion, and two-time major winner Xander Schauffele will join world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler on the U.S. team for next month’s Ryder Cup against Europe.
Spaun Earns Spot with Strong FedEx St. Jude Performance
Spaun, now second in U.S. team points, secured his Ryder Cup position after finishing runner-up for the third time this season at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis, Tennessee. He will make his Ryder Cup debut.
Spaun’s Close Loss in Sudden-Death Playoff
Ranked eighth globally, Spaun narrowly lost to England’s Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff at TPC Southwind, marking the first playoff round of the FedEx Cup playoffs.
Europe’s Ryder Cup Roster Taking Shape
Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood from England have qualified to join Masters champion Rory McIlroy on the European side.
Spaun’s First Major Came with Dramatic U.S. Open Win
At 34, Spaun captured his maiden major title with a 64½-foot birdie putt on the final hole of the U.S. Open at Oakmont in June.
Schauffele Looking to Bounce Back from Injury
Schauffele, who won the PGA Championship and Open Championship in 2024, has been hampered by a rib injury this season but remains a strong contender with multiple top-10 finishes.
Schauffele’s Ryder Cup Experience
Ranked third worldwide, Schauffele will make his third straight Ryder Cup appearance, holding a 4-4-0 record, including a tough 1-3 showing during the U.S. loss in 2023 at Marco Simone Golf Club.
Additional U.S. Team Qualifiers and Captain’s Picks
Golfers ranked 4th through 6th in U.S. points after the BMW Championship will also automatically qualify, with captain Keegan Bradley set to announce six picks August 27, shortly after the Tour Championship.
Europe’s Team Finalizing Automatic Qualifiers and Picks
Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, and Tommy Fleetwood have clinched spots, with Robert MacIntyre, Tyrrell Hatton, and Sepp Straka rounding out the current top six. Several others are expected to be captain’s picks.
Captain’s Picks to Shape Final Rosters
European captain Jon Rahm will make the team despite ranking 22nd, while players like Matt Wallace, Matt Fitzpatrick, and others will compete for remaining spots.
