Patrick Cantlay Leads U.S. Squad at Bethpage with Signature Hat and Dual Affiliations

Why Cantlay’s hat matters at Bethpage

When you picture the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, one of the first images the crowd will see is Patrick Cantlay sporting his familiar, navy‑blue baseball cap. It’s more than a fashion choice; the hat has become a personal brand for the 28‑year‑old, a way to stay cool under the relentless sun that bakes the famed links. Fans have taken to calling him “the hat guy,” and the accessory has even shown up on his social media feeds as a subtle nod to his roots on the West Coast.

That same hat will now be a symbol of a broader story: Cantlay’s unique position as a player who represents both the United States in the Ryder Cup and the burgeoning LIV Golf circuit. The juxtaposition of a traditional national team event and a break‑away league is rare, yet Cantlay embraces it, saying the hat reminds him to stay grounded no matter which banner he’s playing under.

Juggling two worlds: PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and Team USA

In late 2023 Cantlay shocked the golf world by signing a multi‑year deal with LIV Golf, leaving the PGA Tour after a decorated career that includes the 2021 Tour Championship win and a stint as world No. 1. The move sparked debates about player loyalty, especially with the Ryder Cup looming.

Despite LIV’s contentious relationship with the PGA, the United States Golf Association (USGA) and PGA of America have kept the selection criteria focused on performance rather than league affiliation. Cantlay’s stats—averaging 68.9 strokes per round over the last season, a 23‑stroke advantage in the FedExCup points, and a slew of top‑10 finishes—earned him a spot on the U.S. roster.

His dual affiliation means he will be juggling two sets of expectations. On the LIV side, he’s expected to help the league gain credibility by performing well in a marquee event. For Team USA, he’s tasked with delivering clutch shots on a course known for punishing mis‑hits. Bethpage Black, with its narrow fairways and fast, sloping greens, will test any player’s mental toughness, and Cantlay’s calm demeanor could become the team’s secret weapon.

Coach Zach Johnson, a former Ryder Cup captain, has praised Cantlay’s ability to compartmentalize. “He treats each round like a separate job,” Johnson said in a recent press conference. “Whether he’s wearing a LIV shirt during practice or a USA polo on the fairway, his focus never wavers.”

The presence of LIV players on both sides of the competition adds another layer of intrigue. While Cantlay will represent the U.S., other LIV stars such as Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau will be playing for the International team, meaning the league will have representation on both squads. This unique scenario makes the 2025 Ryder Cup the first in history where a single organization has members on opposing sides.

Fans and pundits alike are curious how the new dynamic will affect team chemistry. Some worry that lingering tensions could spill over, but early team gatherings suggest a professional atmosphere. Cantlay has reportedly been acting as a bridge, sharing practice routines and mental‑game tips with teammates from both leagues, helping to smooth over any friction.

Beyond the immediate competition, Cantlay’s involvement signals a broader shift in golf’s ecosystem. His willingness to wear the hat, play for multiple organizations, and still commit to the Ryder Cup could inspire other top players to reconsider their allegiances without fearing exclusion from prestigious team events.

As the first tee at Bethpage approaches, all eyes will be on Cantlay’s swing, his hat, and his ability to navigate the delicate balance of representing more than one banner. Whether he ends up hoisting the Ryder Cup trophy or simply adding another strong finish to his résumé, his performance will undeniably shape the conversation around the future of professional golf.