[Photo: Stuart Franklin]
In news that is not especially stunning, but still impactful, the PGA of America has announced that Tiger Woods will not be the next US Ryder Cup captain.
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Prior to his recent car accident and arrest last Friday in Jupiter, Florida, it was widely understood that the job belonged to him if he wanted it, and according to the PGA of America, it was Tiger’s choice to take or pass on the job. The fact that he is not doing it was more widely expected following Woods’ own announcement yesterday that he’d be “stepping away” and seeking treatment as part of his recovery process.
“We commend Tiger for prioritising his long-term health and deeply respect the courage it takes to make such a personal decision,” they wrote. “Tiger has shared with us that he will not serve as captain of the 2027 US Ryder Cup Team and we support his decision. The PGA of America will share further updates regarding the Ryder Cup Captaincy when appropriate.”
You can read the full statement here:
Statement from the PGA of America pic.twitter.com/vRjdXiR7yU
— PGA of America (@PGA) April 1, 2026
Prior to his accident, Woods was undecided on the captaincy position. The next Ryder Cup will be held at Adare Manor in Ireland in 2027, and for years it has been open speculation that Woods’ connection with Adare Manor’s billionaire owner J.P. McManus – along, of course, with Woods’ status in the sport – made him the logical choice for the job.
Now, uncertainty reigns, with possible options ranging from 2026 Presidents Cup captain Brandt Snedeker to tested captains like Davis Love III, though it’s entirely possible the PGA of America will choose someone totally unexpected, as they did with the selection of Keegan Bradley for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage. Luke Donald will captain the European side for the third straight time.
