TIGER WOODS could soon be named as the USA’s Ryder Cup skipper for 2025 – two years earlier than expected.

The golf legend was already tipped for the job in Ireland in 2027 – due to his friendship with the Adare Manor golf-course owner and ex-Manchester United majority shareholder JP McManus.

But the 15-time Major winner, 48, is a strong contender to lead his country at Bethpage Black on Long Island, New York in September next year.

Woods has even hinted an announcement could come soon.

It follows a mixed Masters last week for the Californian, who has overcome serious injuries, in particular back problems, to resume his top-level career.

Woods set a record for making the cut at Augusta 24 times in a row.

But he then finished last of the remaining players on 16-over par.

His aggregate total of 304 was also his highest ever in 26 appearances at the Masters – worse than the 301 he shot over four rounds in 2022.

And although he insists he is knuckling down for the other three majors from May to July, it’s off the course where he could make his next big impact.

Woods finally spoke out about the Ryder Cup captaincy when questioned in Augusta.

He said he would be renewing discussions over the role with the PGA of America’s CEO Steve Waugh following the tournament.

Woods explained: “We’re still talking about it.

“It’s something that Seth and I are going to sit back and talk about after this event.”

The US team are smarting from a 16.5-11.5 mauling in Rome in 2023.

Unsurprisingly, Team Europe have already announced that Luke Donald has retained the captaincy, with Thomas Bjorn staying as vice-skipper.