Justin Thomas’s ‘Boys Club’ Turns Laughing Stock in Golf World After Keegan Bradley’s $3.6M Revenge

Keegan Bradley has claimed victory at the BMW Championship, pocketing $3.6 million and reigniting debates about his exclusion from Team USA’s 2023 Ryder Cup roster. Despite his stellar performance, Bradley was passed over in favor of Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, and Sam Burns—decisions that didn’t sit well with many fans, especially after Team USA’s disappointing Ryder Cup loss.

Bradley’s win underscores a growing sentiment that the so-called “boys club” of U.S. golf, which includes names like Thomas, Jordan Spieth, and Patrick Cantlay, may be faltering. CBS golf writer Kyle Porter highlighted the disparity, noting that Bradley has won three PGA Tour events in the last two seasons—more than the combined total of the five Ryder Cup regulars.

PGA Tour wins the last two seasons.

• Keegan Bradley: 3

• Ryder Cuppers Rickie Fowler, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Patrick Cantlay and Collin Morikawa combined: 2

— Kyle Porter (@KylePorterCBS) August 25, 2024

The decision by Captain Zach Johnson to exclude Bradley has fueled fan frustration, with many arguing that personal relationships influenced the selection process. Social media buzzed with support for Bradley, with one fan remarking, “Keegan is more of a fan favorite than ever before. The tides are turning.”

As Bradley eyes the 2025 Ryder Cup, he’s determined to earn his spot on merit, possibly even as a playing captain. With his current form, many fans believe he could lead Team USA to a stronger showing next year, proving that sometimes, it’s the outsiders who make the biggest impact.