Gary Woodland has been named as the fifth and final vice captain for the U.S. Ryder Cup team by captain Keegan Bradley.

The announcement, made on Wednesday, completes Bradley’s leadership group for the 45th Ryder Cup, set to be held in New York from September 23-28.

The 41-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the American squad as he assumes his first-ever Ryder Cup role, either as a player or as part of the leadership team. 

He will be joining an accomplished group of vice captains: Jim Furyk, Kevin Kisner, Webb Simpson, and Brandt Snedeker. Together, they aim to help the U.S. reclaim the Ryder Cup on home soil after Europe’s victory in 2023.

Bradley’s decision to go with the 2019 U.S Open Champion was richly informed by deep respect for his career and accomplishments; “As a major champion and someone who is still competing at a high level, he is well aware of the demands of performing on golf’s biggest stages. He will be a valuable leader for us over the coming months and throughout the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black,” Bradley said.

Woodland’s journey to this prestigious position is especially significant considering his recent health battles.

In September 2023, he underwent surgery to remove a brain lesion, an ordeal that earned him the 2025 PGA TOUR Courage Award, in recognition of his perseverance and positive impact on the game.

Even with these challenges, Woodland has continued to compete, with a recent runner-up finish at the Houston Open earlier this year and a current ranking of 68th in the FedExCup standings.

For him, the appointment is a career milestone. “I am extremely excited and grateful to Keegan for the opportunity to support the U.S. Team at the 2025 Ryder Cup.

Keegan’s passion for this event is contagious, and I am thrilled to be a part of it. With just over two months to go until we arrive at Bethpage, I am fully committed to doing everything I can to help Keegan as well as our team of vice captains and players,” Woodland said.