Jim Furyk has thrown the door wide open for an epic Ryder Cup return for Patrick Reed, fully rekindling one of the biggest golf debates of recent years. The US captain for Adare Manor 2027 left no doubt that it would be "really strong" if Reed were one of the twelve players to earn a spot on the team. This statement landed like a cannonball and shows that Furyk's selection criteria primarily focus on current form and team fit – and not on old stories.
Furyk's comments came during the "year-to-go" media events in Ireland, where he and Europe's captain Luke Donald celebrated the countdown to the matches. "Captain America" emphasized that the USA would "send the twelve best guys" into the competition. For many golf fans, Reed was effectively history in the Ryder Cup team after 2018, not least because he had publicly criticized Furyk's captaincy after the defeat in Paris – and his demand at the time to play with Jordan Spieth and not be benched twice.
Captain America Means Business
Reed has not played in a Ryder Cup since 2018. He was also overlooked for the 2021, 2023, and 2025 editions, despite strong Masters results. However, Furyk now seems to be charting a new course. For the 2027 team, six players will qualify automatically, with another six being Captain's Picks. This gives Furyk enormous leeway in squad selection and the opportunity to make unconventional decisions.
Focus on Ireland 2027
Behind Furyk's statement is also the clear message that the USA needs to prepare better for Ireland 2027. The Foursomes format in particular and the special atmosphere on the course are causing him headaches. Furyk conceded that the Americans' weak Foursomes record is a real problem that he wants to get under control before 2027. Whether Patrick Reed, who has also been battling injuries recently and was therefore withdrawn from some events, will actually return to top form and qualify for the battle for the trophy remains to be seen. But the debate around Captain America has been fully reignited – and we can hardly wait to see how it unfolds.
