Snedeker's Bold 2026 Presidents Cup Picks: Koivun's Surprise Inclusion Sparks Debate
September 2, 2026
Brandt Snedeker will pick six captain’s choices for the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah after the Tour Championship determined the automatic qualifiers: Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young, Wyndham Clark, Sam Burns, Russell Henley and Collin Morikawa.
Jackson Koivun, who recently won the 3M Open in his third start since turning pro, has been added to the U.S. Presidents Cup team as a captain’s pick, signaling a bold move toward upside and future impact.
The International team is led by Geoff Ogilvy and features debutants such as Ryo Hisatsune, Nick Taylor, and Nico Echavarria among others.
Snedeker has stated the selection approach will weigh playing results, overall capability, and ceiling versus floor rather than relying solely on rankings.
Ryan Gerard, fresh off a strong Tour Championship showing, traveled to Europe to prep for potential selection but was not chosen, remaining a notable late-blooming contender for future fall events.
Koivun’s selection is defended as recognizing upside and potential future impact, drawing a parallel to Europe’s pre-2023 strategy with Ludvig Aberg.
Reaction to the pick includes skepticism from fans and analysts, though Golf Channel analysts noted Gerard’s consistency and value to the team.
The selections are framed as a blend of performance data and strategic foresight about team leadership and chemistry.
Koivun’s rapid rise and generational talent profile make him a compelling candidate, with Snedeker emphasizing team-room value and pairing potential over a long list of top finishes.
Koivun has not played since the Memphis event, so the Asheville tune-up is seen as prudent to avoid rust ahead of Medinah.
Arriving at Medinah with competitive reps is important given the gap since the Tour Championship and the event’s start.
Summary based on 32 sources
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Sources

AP News • Sep 1, 2026
Presidents Cup rosters for the International and American teams at Medinah | AP News
The Athletic • Sep 1, 2026
Phenom Jackson Koivun named to U.S. Presidents Cup team
USA TODAY • Aug 24, 2026
Scottie Scheffler leads 2026 Presidents Cup automatic qualifiers for US team