John Daly hopes for a late Ryder Cup role in 2027 and praises Tiger Woods as a potential U.S. team captain.
In an exclusive interview with Hard Rock Bet, John Daly shared his hopes of being part of the U.S. Ryder Cup team in 2027. Despite being a two-time major champion, Daly remains the only major winner since the event’s inception in 1927 to never participate in a Ryder Cup. At 59, he admitted that his chances of being named captain for the 2027 edition at Adare Manor in Ireland are slim, but he still dreams of contributing in some capacity.
Tiger Woods as Captain? Daly Thinks It’s a Perfect Fit
“I’d love to be captain one day, but I don’t think it’ll ever happen,” Daly said. Still, he expressed enthusiasm for the idea of Tiger Woods leading the team. “Tiger would be an incredible captain,” Daly added. “I’d love to be a vice-captain or just be part of the team in any way.” While Daly’s own candidacy for a leadership role may seem unlikely, he believes his presence could help foster a more relaxed and confident atmosphere within the team.
“I’d love to bring my ideas and hopefully help the guys,” he said. “It would be a dream come true—something I’ve wanted since I won the PGA Championship in 1991.” Daly also mentioned that he felt he should have been selected for the team on two occasions, but “it just didn’t happen.”
Patriotism and Team Spirit Drive Daly’s Ambitions
For Daly, being part of the Ryder Cup team would be a meaningful consolation, especially given his strong patriotic beliefs. “I think our team needs to come together more like a family and fully support the United States of America, instead of thinking about what we get out of it personally,” he said. “I just want the Ryder Cup trophy.”
John Daly remains one of the most beloved figures in American golf, known for his massive drives and colorful personality. He won the 1991 PGA Championship and the 1995 Open Championship, earning the nickname “Long John.” Despite his reputation as golf’s “enfant terrible”—famously drinking beer and chain-smoking during his first major appearance—his patriotic fervor has not gone unnoticed in the U.S.