Phil Mickelson Excluded From 2025 Ryder Cup After LIV Golf Move

Phil Mickelson, a six-time major champion and longtime Ryder Cup player, was widely anticipated to captain the U.S. Ryder Cup team at Bethpage Black in 2025, a venue where he has a strong fan connection and personal history. However, his decision to join the Saudi-funded LIV Golf league led to his exclusion from the traditional golf establishment, including the Ryder Cup, marking a significant turning point in his career. Despite his absence, Mickelson's legacy within the Ryder Cup remains respected, with current U.S. captain Keegan Bradley, a former Ryder Cup partner, acknowledging his influential role. Mickelson's move to LIV Golf effectively ended his Ryder Cup playing and leadership prospects, illustrating the complexities and divisions in modern professional golf. His situation exemplifies how allegiance to emerging golf leagues can impact a player's standing in historic tournaments. The Ryder Cup at Bethpage thus proceeds without one of its most iconic figures, underscoring the evolving landscape of the sport.