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The US team captain admits he will "not ever recover from" the USA's loss to Europe after enduring "one of the most difficult periods" of his life since the loss at Bethpage.

The 39-year-old led the American squad in New York this past fall, overseeing a disastrous campaign as Europe secured a narrow win.

Bradley's appointment made him the youngest captain of either side since the legendary golfer in 1963.

However, he conceded he had made some wrong calls after his pairings and course set-up faced scrutiny and criticism following the result, as Europe became the initial squad to claim victory on foreign soil in over a decade.

"After the tournament, this period has been one of the toughest times of my career," stated the captain during his initial media appearance since the event.

"When you win, it's glory for a lifetime - but I didn't and I must live with this outcome for the rest of my life."

"There's no part of me that thinks I'll ever get over this. This tournament has been particularly harsh to me. I'll forever wonder and wish."

Notwithstanding a Thrilling Last Day Comeback Attempt

Despite a inspiring last-round rally effort, Team USA faced an insurmountable challenge after Europe established a 5½-2½ lead during the first day and increased it to a commanding lead by the end of day two - the biggest lead entering the last round in modern Ryder Cup history.

And although the home team secured 8.5 points in the individual contests, it wasn't enough.

"You put so much into it, and you have all this planning, and the first two days went as poorly as we could have ever thought," said Bradley.

Leader's Individual Struggles

Bradley had been expected to fulfil a player-captain role but had a "change of heart" months before and opted against playing at the venue.

"During the initial training session, I was out on the tee, and I was watching the guys walk down the fairway all together, and I thought 'I wish I was playing - that's the essence. I'm missing out.'"

But Bradley says his choice was correct in excluding himself from selection since he felt "physically exhausted" after two days of the match.

"I simply believed handling both roles was impossible," he stated.

A History in the Tournament Setbacks

Bradley has experienced defeat in three Ryder Cups both competing and leading. He still hasn't unpacked his suitcase from the 2012 defeat at Medinah and also participated with the defeated American team in Scotland in 2014.

And, despite being unsure about future opportunities, he affirms he will persist to offer his services for upcoming tournaments.

The next Ryder Cup takes place in Ireland in mid-September 2027.