FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — With the Ryder Cup returning to U.S. soil at Bethpage Black, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is underscoring Bryson DeChambeau’s importance to the American lineup.
DeChambeau’s Impact on Team USA
Scheffler, who grew up in Dallas and played at the University of Texas, has a long-running connection with DeChambeau, a fellow Texan who starred at SMU and won both the NCAA Championship and U.S. Amateur in 2015. Their on-course chemistry was evident at Whistling Straits in 2021, where they teamed up during Team USA’s 19-9 victory over Europe.
That week, Scheffler and DeChambeau halved a fourball match against Viktor Hovland and Tommy Fleetwood, then defeated Paul Casey and Fleetwood 3 and 1. Both Americans finished unbeaten at 2-0-1. In singles, Scheffler beat Jon Rahm 4 and 3, while DeChambeau topped Sergio Garcia 3 and 2.
Scheffler has emphasized DeChambeau’s competitiveness, presence in the team room, and ability to energize crowds. He also pointed to DeChambeau’s pride in representing the United States and his résumé as a multiple-time U.S. Open champion as reasons he can be a difference-maker at Bethpage Black.
DeChambeau, who captains the Crushers GC team, was not selected for the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, where the Americans lost. With Keegan Bradley now leading Team USA, DeChambeau’s role this week could be pivotal in the bid to reclaim the trophy. Understanding the dynamics of the team and the need for strong leadership will be key as they prepare for future competitions.