Tiger Woods may have missed his chance to captain Team USA in the Ryder Cup – and not everyone is buying his explanation. According to Rory McIlroy’s former agent, Andrew “Chubby” Chandler, the 15-time major champion “bottled it” when offered the prestigious role.
Woods, last seen in Ryder Cup action back in 2018 during a rough individual outing in Team Europe’s victory, was widely considered a frontrunner to lead this year’s squad. Instead, the captaincy went to Keegan Bradley, who at 38 became the youngest American captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963.
Chandler believes Woods’ refusal had less to do with scheduling conflicts – as the golfer claimed – and more to do with a lack of enthusiasm.
Americans don’t give importance to the Ryder Cup
In a recent interview with Casino Hawks, Chandler revealed, “They offered it to Tiger, he didn’t want it. He might have bottled it. He’d say maybe there wasn’t enough time, but that’s nonsense. They don’t treat it like we do though. America doesn’t treat it like it’s a big thing as Europe does.”
Woods had previously stated that commitments with the TGL and PIF discussions prevented him from giving Team USA the time and energy required. Still, he left the door open for the future: “That does not mean I wouldn’t want to captain a team in the future. If and when I feel it is the right time, I will put my hat in the ring.”
Woods is helping Bradley behind the scenes
In the meantime, Bradley revealed that Woods has still been heavily involved behind the scenes, offering advice as he shapes Team USA. “I’ve spoken to him a ton about this,” Bradley said. “The Ryder Cup is a much different animal, but we have a plan.”
Whether Woods truly “bottled it” or simply chose to wait for a better moment, the Ryder Cup stage will now belong to Bradley – with Tiger’s shadow looming in the background.
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