Patrick Reed spoke to Keegan Bradley before US Ryder Cup Announcement

Patrick Reed spoke to The Bogey Men ahead of the Amgen Irish Open, at The K Club.

'Captain America' Patrick Reed is in Ireland for the DP World Tour's Amgen Irish Open at The K Club this week, and after his practice round he had a few words with Jonny about conversations Reed had with Keegan Bradley before deciding against being a playing captain.

Catching up with Patrick Reed just after his practice round, I was struck by his calm confidence. When I asked him about his season, he admitted the year didn’t start the way he’d hoped. But since mid-season, Reed feels his game has steadied. “The golf game feels ready and solid right now,” he told me, adding that this week could mark the start of a strong run.

We reflected on his seventh-place finish in the LIV League standings and his maiden LIV win in Dallas. Reed’s pride was evident, but so was his hunger. “Now I just need one on the European Tour,” he said with a grin. 

“To win out here would mean I’ve checked just about every box, and that’s a goal I really want to chase.”

Winning across every major tour is a personal milestone he’s chasing, and he made it clear Europe is high on his list, he has been playing regularly on the DP World Tour for over 10 years so I was a little surprised he hadn’t knocked a win off here already.

Fresh from nine holes in practice, Reed praised the course conditions, despite recent rain. “It’s in mint shape,” he said, though the wind could make for a stern test. He emphasised that patience and precise ball-striking will be critical to lifting the trophy this week.

Naturally, Ryder Cup chatter was unavoidable. Reed shared that he’d had several conversations with U.S. captain Keegan Bradley about his own candidacy. The call was close, but ultimately Reed came up just short of being picked. While he admitted the disappointment, he said he respected the decision and backed Bradley’s leadership fully.

When I asked about Bradley’s choice not to pick himself, Reed was supportive: “As captain, you’ve got to be 110% focused on the team, not just your game.” He believes Bradley’s passion will translate into strong leadership for the U.S. side.

When I asked about Europe’s picks, Reed chuckled before saying he hoped things looked “completely different than Rome.” Still, he praised both captains and expressed faith in their choices. His words left no doubt: Reed may not be in the lineup this time, but his competitive fire for the Ryder Cup—and belief he should be on the team—burns as strong as ever.