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. Daly, the only major champion never to have participated in the Ryder Cup since its inception in 1927, admitted that while his chances of being named captain at Adare Manor in Ireland are slim, he would still love to be involved in any 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 continued to dream, stating that he could easily envision Tiger Woods as captain. Daly added that he would be honored to serve as a vice-captain or simply be part of the team. “Tiger would be an incredible captain,” he said. “I’d love to be a vice-captain or just somehow involved.”
While Daly’s candidacy as a vice-captain may seem unlikely, his presence could bring a relaxed and spirited energy to the U.S. squad. “I’d love to contribute ideas and hopefully help the guys,” he said. “It’s something I’ve dreamed of since winning the PGA Championship in 1991.” Daly also expressed that 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 named to the Ryder Cup team in any role would be a meaningful consolation, especially as a proud American patriot. “I think our team just needs to grow more like a family and fully stand behind the United States of America, instead of worrying 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, Daly won two major titles: the PGA Championship in 1991 and the Open Championship in 1995. Now 59, Daly—nicknamed “Long John”—is still the only major winner never to have played in the Ryder Cup. Despite his reputation as golf’s “enfant terrible,” Daly’s patriotic spirit continues to resonate with American fans.