The PGA of America formally announced Tuesday that Davis Love III will be the Team USA captain for next year’s Ryder Cup at Hazeltine. There had been rumors over the last few weeks that the 50-year-old would be selected as captain for the second time, and now Love has a unique opportunity. Having been in charge of the 2012 squad, he is one of the few to boast experience as both a leader and a player in the biennial competition. But can he put the demons of three years ago behind him, or will they come back to haunt Team USA?
Depending on who you were rooting for, the 2012 Ryder Cup is known as the “Miracle” or the “Meltdown at Medinah.” After the first two days of play, the United States had a 10-6 lead over Europe, and was in good position to win the Cup for only the second time this century. But the Europeans won 8 of Sunday’s 12 singles matches to complete an improbable comeback, winning 14.5-13.5. It was exactly what the Americans had pulled off in 1999, with Love himself playing a significant role; his 6 & 5 win over Jean Van de Velde was the first match to finish in Brookline, bringing the deficit to 10-7 and giving the Americans hope. In 2012, the role reversal was dramatic, and this recap illustrates the range in emotions for both teams.
In 2014, Europe won the Ryder Cup for a third straight time, with American captain Tom Watson heavily criticized following the defeat for his approach to selecting pairings. With Love back in charge, his agenda is simple, but the pressure to deliver will be present.
Team Europe appointed its captain last week: Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland, who has played on several victorious squads, and won the 2011 Open Championship at Royal St. George’s.
The 2016 Ryder Cup will be held September 30-October 2 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota.