5 major things we learned from Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley's Ryder Cup press conference

Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley addressed some key talking points ahead of the next as they attended a joint press conference in New York. After Donald's Europe stormed to victory in Rome one year ago, the US will attempt to regain the trophy on home soil when Bethpage Black in New York State hosts the 2025 instalment of the legendary contest.

Donald is looking to become the first captain to win an away match since Jose Maria Olazabal led Europe to the 'Miracle at Medinah' in 2012. The US have appointed a young captain in Bradley, 38, who could even play himself.

The pair faced questions on the potential presence of Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia and how misbehaving fans will be dealt with. Here are five major talking points from the event...

Tiger Woods talks

Bradley was asked about the prospect of Woods being involved in the team, possibly as a vice-captain. The pair have spoken, with Bradley describing the 15-time major winner as a "mentor of all of us".

He said: "I spoke to Tiger a bunch when the [captaincy] announcement happened. He was really, really helpful. Had a lot of great advice. I sort of put everything on pause for a second, and I'll be addressing that in the coming weeks and months.

"But I've had great conversations with Tiger. He's got a lot of great suggestions on things we can do as a team."

Sergio Garcia U-turn

The Spaniad's Ryder Cup career appeared to be over following his defection to LIV Golf, which resulted in him missing the last contest. Europe's all-time leading points scorer resigned his membership in May 2023 after an arbitration panel found in favour of the DP World Tour and ratified its right to fine and suspend players who competed in LIV Golf events without permission.

However, a year is a long time in golf nowadays and the prospect of Garcia rejoining the DP World Tour, and putting himself in the frame for a Ryder Cup spot, is firmly on the cards.

Donald confirmed he had spoken to Garcia about the issue, saying: "He resigned his membership a couple of years ago but we have had some chats. He's considering rejoining. He'd have to follow all the rules and regulations like everyone else and if he does that he will be eligible to partake in the Ryder Cup."

Mickelson 'not interested'

While Woods and Garcia could be involved at Bethpage Black, it looks like Mickelson will be watching on from afar. Pressed on Lefty being a vice-captain, Bradley said: "Personally, I don't think he's really interested in doing it.

"I owe a lot to Phil and I think he's done so much for the American side at the Ryder Cup, but I'm not so sure he's looking to come in as a vice-captain."

Captain to play?

There has been speculation that Bradley could be the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963. The man himself used the recent Presidents Cup, which he played in, as a fact-finding mission.

Jim Furyk captained Team USA against the World team in the Ryder Cup-style event. Bradley reflected: "It was important to remember the preparation that goes into it [as a player in team events], and I was able to really watch what Jim and the vice-captains did, creating an atmosphere for us to succeed and to do well and be prepared and know who you're playing with and have a real plan.

"As for me to play, it's always a goal of mine to play on the Ryder Cup teams. It's so far off now that it's really... I'm not going to worry about it [for now]."

Fans who 'cross the line'

The misbehaviour of fans has marred previous editions of the event and Bradley said fans who "cross the line" would be kicked out. He declared: "The PGA of America has things in place for each group to monitor the situation and if you act inappropriately, you're going to be asked to leave the tournament.

"I hope and expect the fans will respect what the guys are doing but also at the same time be lively and supporting our team."

Donald agreed with his opposite number, adding: "We've all seen Ryder Cups where it has crossed the line. It's the responsiblty of the PGA of America to have protocols and a plan in place.

"Keegan and I like to do things the right way, win fairly and squarely. We want the best team to win in a passionate and spirited high-energy environment."