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 tournament’s inception in 1927 to never have played in the Ryder Cup. At 59, he admits his chances of being named captain at Adare Manor in Ireland are slim, but he still dreams of contributing in some capacity.
Tiger Woods as Captain: Daly’s Ideal Scenario
“I would love to be a captain one day, but I doubt it’ll ever happen,” Daly said. Still, he expressed enthusiasm about the idea of Tiger Woods leading the team. “Tiger would be an incredible captain,” he added. “I’d love to be a co-captain or just be part of the team in any way.”
While Daly’s candidacy as vice-captain may seem unlikely, his presence could bring a relaxed and spirited energy to the U.S. squad. “I’d love to bring my ideas and hopefully help the guys,” Daly said. “It’s something I’ve dreamed of since winning the PGA Championship in 1991.” He also noted that he felt he should have been selected for the team twice in the past, but “it just didn’t happen.”
Patriotism and Team Spirit Drive Daly
Daly emphasized that being part of the Ryder Cup team in any form would be a meaningful consolation, especially as a proud American patriot. “I think 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, he won the PGA Championship in 1991 and the Open Championship in 1995. Nicknamed “Long John,” Daly is still the only major winner never to have played in a Ryder Cup. Despite his reputation as golf’s “enfant terrible”—famously drinking beer and chain-smoking during his first major appearance—his patriotic spirit continues to resonate with fans across the U.S.