Ryder Cup 2025: DeChambeau and Justin Thomas 'join forces' for the first time

DeChambeau, who has just returned to the team after missing the 2023 Ryder Cup, will join Justin Thomas on the course at 7:10 a.m. ET on September 26. This will be the first time two of America’s most charismatic golfers have played together in the most demanding team format, where chemistry, rhythm, and mentality are on par with technique.

DeChambeau is known for his long drives and risky tactics, while Thomas is more of a short game player. If they work together, they can create a significant advantage. But in terms of foursomes, DeChambeau has lost both of his matches, while Thomas has not been very good with 2 wins and 3 losses.

The American pair will face some tough opponents in the form of Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton from the European team. Rahm will continue his familiar role as the “opener” in his fourth consecutive start.

Spain's No. 1 golfer has never lost a foursome (all four wins), and this time he will be joined by his LIV Golf teammate Tyrrell Hatton. This duo gave the U.S. team nightmares at Rome 2023, winning all two matches.

Another legendary pairing is returning, with 2025 Masters winner Rory McIlroy partnering with Tommy Fleetwood, who scored the decisive point in Europe’s 16.5-11.5 win two years ago. The pair will face Collin Morikawa and Harris English, who were instrumental in the USA’s resounding victory at Whistling Straits in 2021.

The familiar “twin” Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay are also indispensable for the US team, when they will face the European pair of Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland. Meanwhile, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler continues to play alongside Russell Henley after appearing three times at the 2024 Presidents Cup. They will have to face the young “scoring machines” of Europe: Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick.

On the US side, three rookies Ben Griffin, JJ Spaun, Cameron Young and Sam Burns are temporarily sidelined. Captain Bradley did not hide his expectations when placing his trust in DeChambeau and Thomas: “Bryson is a world-class golfer. We want to open with a match that can stir up the atmosphere. Bryson is a golfer who always fights until the last minute, Justin is the same. Don't forget, Justin is the 'heart' of the team. They will be a very difficult match to beat."

On the European side, captain Luke Donald decided to leave four players out of the opening round: rookie Rasmus Hojgaard, along with Shane Lowry, Sepp Straka and Justin Rose. Captain Donald explained: “In match play, a good start is extremely important. Rahm and Hatton have proven to be a good pair, experienced and know how to win. With so many options at hand, I carefully considered the factors of personality and combination. This is the strongest lineup we can launch."

With bold decisions from both captains, the audience at Bethpage Black and millions of fans around the world are waiting for an explosive opening where each serve can turn the tide of the 2025 Ryder Cup.