Keegan Bradley Faces Tough Decision on Ryder Cup Lineup

Ben Griffin’s performance at the Procore Championship has put him at the center of a critical decision for Keegan Bradley as the Ryder Cup approaches. Despite a disappointing finish, Griffin’s achievements this season, including his 11th top-10 finish and two victories, have made a strong case for his inclusion in the lineup.

At just 29 years old, Griffin has emerged as a promising talent, although some observers questioned his fit on the team due to his status as a rookie and his choice of golf ball. These factors raised concerns about how he would perform in the alternate shot format, particularly during the opening two days of the Ryder Cup.

During a recent episode of The Smylie Show, Kaufman emphasized that Bradley should not overlook Griffin’s potential for the Friday morning session. “My only takeaway from this is how can you find a way to get Ben Griffin in foursomes?” Kaufman said. He believes Griffin’s proven track record makes him a strong candidate for early play.

Kaufman pointed out that Griffin’s ability to maintain a score of even par or better in high-pressure situations positions him as a valuable asset for the team. He noted that at the Ryder Cup, even average play can secure victories, making Griffin’s consistent performance crucial.

Understanding the Importance of Ball Choice

The choice of golf ball can significantly impact a player’s performance, especially in high-stakes tournaments like the Ryder Cup. Even elite players can struggle to adapt when they are not using their preferred equipment. Phil Mickelson has previously highlighted this issue, recalling that his partnership with Tiger Woods in 2004 faltered due to the lack of time to adjust to a different ball.

For Griffin, sticking with his Maxfli ball has been a key element of his success this season. His continued use of this particular ball has raised questions about how Bradley might align him with partners who share similar equipment preferences for the foursomes format.

While Bradley may already be considering pairing Griffin for the opening session, there is a compelling argument for him to rely on more familiar partnerships as the team seeks a strong start.

Nevertheless, Kaufman argues that Griffin’s recent performances complicate Bradley’s decision-making. “I wouldn’t have Ben Griffin sitting that Friday morning,” he asserted. The stakes are high, and ensuring the right mix of players could prove pivotal in the quest for victory at the Ryder Cup.

As the tournament nears, all eyes will be on Bradley and his choices, particularly with Griffin’s potential to influence the team’s dynamics. The Ryder Cup promises to be an exciting chapter for both established stars and emerging talents like Griffin.