New York/Limerick, 25 April (H.S.): Veteran American golfer Jim Furyk has been appointed captain of the United States team for the 2027 Ryder Cup, to be held at Adare Manor in Limerick, Ireland. The decision comes after golf legend Tiger Woods turned down the captaincy, citing health reasons.

The 55‑year‑old Furyk, a 17‑time winner on the PGA Tour, previously led the US side at the 2018 Ryder Cup in Paris, where the team suffered defeat. He now replaces Keegan Bradley in the role and joins an elite group of only four American captains—alongside Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Davis Love III—to have been entrusted with the position twice since 1979.

In a statement released by the PGA of America, Furyk said:

“Being named captain of the US Ryder Cup team for the second time is a tremendous honour. I am fully committed to creating the right environment and strategy so our players can deliver their best and bring the Cup back to the United States on European soil.”

Furyk also indicated that he plans to blend lessons from his past experience with fresh ideas as he prepares for the 2027 edition. The US team last won the Ryder Cup in Europe in 1993, and Furyk’s primary objective will be to end America’s long drought in away contests.

After the 2018 loss, questions were raised over Furyk’s captaincy, especially regarding team selection and tactics. However, he rehabilitated his reputation as a leader by guiding the United States to a 10th consecutive victory at the 2024 Presidents Cup, showcasing his ability to manage top‑tier talent under pressure.

Woods had been widely regarded as the frontrunner for the 2027 captaincy, but he stepped aside following a serious car crash and a DUI‑related arrest earlier in the year. The PGA of America said Woods has chosen to focus on treatment and his long‑term health, and the organisation has fully backed his decision.

On the European side, Luke Donald has been reappointed as captain for the third consecutive time, aiming to secure a third straight Ryder Cup triumph for Team Europe. The 46th Ryder Cup will be played from September 17 to 19, 2027, at Adare Manor, where Furyk will seek to turn the tide in America’s favour.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar