Team USA Ryder Cup Captain Provides Health Update Following Brain Tumor Battle and ‘Distraction’ Comment

Gary Woodland has been appointed as vice-captain for Team USA at the upcoming Ryder Cup in 2025, marking his first involvement in the event. His inclusion by captain Keegan Bradley offers the opportunity for Woodland to shift focus from his health struggles, which have dominated the past two years.

Woodland, who is participating in the Scottish Open alongside top American players such as Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas, and JJ Spaun, revealed that his new role helps provide a positive distraction. Two years ago, he disclosed his diagnosis of a brain tumor, a diagnosis that he feared might prevent him from seeing his four children grow up.

After successful surgery, Woodland made a remarkable return to professional golf and was honored with the PGA Tour’s Courage Award. Speaking at the Renaissance Club, he expressed his excitement about his vice-captaincy, saying: “It’s an honor. Keegan’s energy is incredible, and I hope to match it and contribute to the team.”

He also shared that the role allows him to focus on something beyond his health issues: “It’s nice to have something else to concentrate on. I’m getting better, though it’s a process. It’s been a long journey, but I’m improving every day.”

Woodland has made an impressive start at the Scottish Open, recording three birdies in his first four holes and finishing the day one under par. Despite some missed opportunities, he remains positive, noting: “The game is better than the score today, which is a bit frustrating. Still, it’s always great to return here.”

Commenting on the course, Woodland added: “I love this place. The weather is fantastic today, and the course was quite scorable early on. It’s a good way to start the weekend.”