Steve Stricker utilized his six captain’s picks Wednesday morning at Whistling Straits. With plenty of players to choose from, the Wisconsin native had to whittle it down to six as Team USA looks to take back the Ryder Cup from Europe in a couple of weeks.
Commenting on course fit, length off-the-tee, and birdie-making ability, Stricker, with the aid of his assistant captains and analytics team, rounded out the United States Ryder Cup team on Wednesday. Selecting Jordan Spieth, Xander Schauffele, and Tony Finau were to no one’s surprise as many suspected them to be “locks” for the team. Leaving three remaining spots, Stricker selected Player of the Year nominee, Harris English, commenting on his world-ranking and fabulous regular season record. Next was Daniel Berger who posted strong showings in the major championships this season and captured a win at Pebble Beach. With wind potentially playing a factor, Berger has one of the lower ball flights on Tour, allowing him to navigate a course such as Whistling Straits. Rounding out the team was the reigning Rookie of the Year, Scottie Scheffler. Posting great finishes at major championships and World Golf Championships, Stricker commented on the Texan’s efforts in Austin. Making his way to the finals in the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play, Scheffler’s play in the match play format impressed the captain. In total, Stricker selected four rookies in Schauffele, English, Berger, and Scheffler. While Schauffele and Berger have Presidents Cup experience, they have yet to partake in the Ryder Cup.