Will Tiger Woods be 2027 U.S. Ryder Cup captain? PGA of America wants decision by the Masters, per report
CBS Sports
by
Robby Kalland
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tiger Woods is the leading candidate to become the U.S. Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 event in Ireland. The PGA of America has reportedly set a deadline for Woods to decide by the time the Masters tournament concludes this April. Woods, who recently returned to full swings following a seventh back surgery in September 2025, is currently prioritizing his role in reshaping the PGA Tour's future and determining whether he can commit enough time to the captaincy.
Woods' potential decision hinges on balancing his responsibilities with the PGA Tour and other commitments. He expressed uncertainty about dedicating the necessary time to lead Team USA, especially after serving on two governing boards. His indecision reflects a broader challenge for the PGA of America, which is eager to finalize its leadership plans early to avoid last-minute complications. Woods' choice will likely impact how the U.S. team prepares for the Ryder Cup in Adare Manor, Ireland.
If Woods declines the role, the PGA faces a difficult task of identifying a suitable replacement. Potential candidates include active players like Keegan Bradley, who led the team in 2025, or experienced vice captains such as Webb Simpson, Brandt Snedeker, and Kevin Kisner. However, these individuals may not bring the same level of success or recognition that Woods would. The PGA might also consider outside-the-box choices, such as Stewart Cink, a seasoned player with significant Ryder Cup experience.
The stakes are high for the U.S., which has struggled to achieve consistent success in recent Ryder Cup events. A strong captain is seen as crucial for turning around Team USA's fortunes, especially after Europe secured victory on home soil in 2026. The PGA of America hopes Woods' decision will bring clarity and stability to the leadership role ahead of the critical 2027 event.
For sports fans, the outcome of this decision holds significant importance. Tiger Woods' involvement could inspire renewed excitement for the Ryder Cup, while his absence might leave a void in the U.S. team's leadership and performance. The situation highlights the challenges of balancing elite athletic careers with high-stakes coaching roles, offering insight into the pressures faced by top athletes and sports organizations alike.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026