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 never to have played in the Ryder Cup since its inception in 1927. At 59, Daly admitted that his chances of being named captain at Adare Manor in Ireland are slim, but he remains hopeful about contributing in some capacity.
Tiger Woods as Captain: Daly’s Ideal Scenario
“I’d love to be a 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 co-captain or just 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 atmosphere to the U.S. squad. “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 winning the PGA Championship in 1991.” Daly also mentioned he felt he should have been selected for the team twice in the past, but “it just didn’t happen.”
Patriotism Drives Daly’s Ryder Cup Ambitions
For Daly, being involved in the Ryder Cup in any role would be a meaningful consolation, especially given his strong patriotic views. “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 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, 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”—notably drinking beer and chain-smoking during his first major—his patriotic spirit has not gone unnoticed in the U.S.