The shortest offseason in professional sports wrapped up recently as the PGA Tour commenced its FedEx Cup Fall series with the Biltmore Championship following a three-week break. Across the Atlantic, the DP World Tour witnessed a packed leaderboard at the BMW PGA Championship, one of its premier events. The winners of these respective tournaments have ties to the U.S. Presidents Cup team, albeit in contrasting roles.
The Presidents Cup is set to begin from Medinah Country Club in Illinois on Thursday. While historically dominated by the Americans since its inception in 1994, the event lacks the fervor seen in the Ryder Cup. However, it promises insights into the future of the competition.
JJ Spaun responded to his exclusion from the Presidents Cup team with stellar performance. Many anticipated his inclusion due to his experience in the 2025 Ryder Cup and finishing 10th on the Presidents Cup points list. Nonetheless, U.S. captain Brandt Snedeker opted for players ranked lower than Spaun, bypassing Spaun and Ben Griffin, who placed eighth in points.
Spaun won the Valero Texas Open in April, secured three additional Top 10 placements in 2026, but faced struggles towards season-end, withdrawing from the Tour Championship due to a shoulder injury. Despite these challenges, Spaun delivered a remarkable performance at the BMW PGA Championship, possibly making Snedeker reconsider his selection choices.
Spaun notably shot a final-round 67 at the BMW PGA Championship, achieving a two-shot victory, surpassing prominent golfers like Aaron Rai, Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Ryan Fox. This impressive achievement came unexpectedly, given his solitary Top 20 finish since mid-June.
“I played with a huge chip on my shoulder; I definitely had something to prove this week,” Spaun stated after his victory.
Another focal point is Jacob Bridgeman, a captain’s pick consistently demonstrating skill, including his victory at the Biltmore Championship. Bridgeman, finishing 12th in the U.S. team standings, justified Snedeker’s decision with significant performances leading up to the Presidents Cup.
The former Clemson star is noted for his consistent performances throughout 2026, including 12 Top 25 finishes and just one missed cut in 24 starts. Though not flashy in major championships, he enters the Presidents Cup with confidence, backed by a triumph at the Biltmore Championship.
Bridgeman, now ranked 20th globally and known for his putting prowess, represents potential. His performance at Medinah could establish him as a key figure in future U.S. golf teams.
The Presidents Cup presents a unique opportunity for Bridgeman to showcase his abilities and personality, something that American golf aficionados eagerly anticipate.
Mark Harris is a writer for OutKick.
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