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 aspirations to be 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 Ryder Cup’s inception in 1927 to have never participated in the event. At 59, he admits the chances of being named captain at Adare Manor in Ireland are slim, but he hasn’t given up hope of contributing in some capacity.
Tiger Woods as captain: Daly’s dream scenario
“I’d love to be captain one day, but it’s probably never going to happen,” Daly said. Still, he expressed enthusiasm about 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 bid for a vice-captain role may seem unlikely, his presence could bring a relaxed and spirited atmosphere to the U.S. squad. “I’d love to bring my ideas and hopefully help the guys,” he said. “It’s something I’ve dreamed of since winning the PGA Championship in 1991.” Daly also reflected on missed opportunities, believing he should have made the team twice, but “it just didn’t happen.”
Patriotism fuels Daly’s Ryder Cup ambitions
For Daly, any involvement with the Ryder Cup team would be a meaningful consolation, especially given his strong patriotic values. “Our team needs to come together more like a family and fully stand behind the United States of America, instead of thinking about what we personally get out of it,” 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 PGA Championship in 1991 and the Open Championship in 1995. Despite his success, he has never played in a Ryder Cup. Nicknamed “Long John,” Daly is also remembered for his unconventional style—drinking beer and chain-smoking during his first major appearance—and his deep-rooted American pride has not gone unnoticed.