Zach Johnson The Right Man for the Job, Looking the Part.

Zach Johnson The Right Man for the Job, Looking the Part.

Polo, Suits, and the Ryder Cup: Zach Johnson’s Journey as Captain

When I stroll into the tailoring room on the second floor of Ralph Lauren’s enormous brick-and-mortar store in Chicago, I find Zach Johnson amidst a sea of colorful polos and button-downs. The staff is busy pulling shirts, asking questions, and returning with new shades of blue. But let me tell you, Johnson’s true mission here isn’t about polos at all. As the head captain of Team USA for the Ryder Cup, he’s got players to scout and important captain’s picks to make. But before any of that, he needs a suit.

Now, who Johnson will choose to round out Team USA has become the hottest topic in golf. Everyone is wondering if Justin Thomas, with his match-play skills, will get a nod, and there’s also the LIV golfer Brooks Koepka, who many believe deserves a captain’s pick. The excitement is palpable among the golfing community.

Later that evening, at a cocktail party buzzing with Chicagoans, Johnson finalizes his measurements for a navy linen suit to be worn during the Ryder Cup’s opening ceremonies in Rome. This year’s look captures the essence of Italy in September. The suit, made exclusively by Ralph Lauren, features a two-button, notch-lapel design with a natural shoulder and a half-canvassed construction. Accompanying the suit are Milano loafers from Del Toro, the official off-course shoe of the team. It’s a fashionable ensemble that will surely make heads turn.

After the suit fitting, Johnson and I find ourselves seated on a worn-in leather couch, surrounded by shelves full of dress shirts, ready to delve into an exciting interview.

HotSamples: This is the time of year when the pressure of the job takes a new form. Can you talk a little bit about the stress at this stage in the year? You’re coming into Chicago, going to the BMW Championship, and you’re like, “Alright, I’m going to see six guys that don’t know whether they’re on the team or not.”

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Zach Johnson: It’s pretty simple at this point. We keep the lines of communication wide open and fill everyone in on potential team members and what lies ahead. I remember my own Ryder Cup qualification process, and it was a nerve-wracking experience. Going into the PGA Championship, I was on the edge, and missing the cut made me anxious. But now, I emphasize to the players that it’s hard. They need to focus on their own game and trust the process.

So when the team comes out, nobody’s surprised.

Johnson: Exactly. By being transparent and sharing these little nuggets of information about the team, it eliminates surprises. They know exactly where they stand. The points system this year has been volatile due to the elevated purses, offering more opportunities. There may even be a few guys we haven’t discussed yet, completely outside the points list, who could be potential picks. It’s all about keeping them informed.

I mean, look at the last two weeks.

Take Lucas Glover, for example. He seized a great opportunity. That’s what this process is all about—creating opportunities—for players to showcase their talent. And Rome will be no different.

Now, let’s go back to the beginning. You get the call to be the Ryder Cup captain for the first time. What are the emotions that rushed through you at that moment?

Honestly, I had no idea if I had accomplished enough in my career to deserve such an honor. I’m still just playing golf, focused on improving my game. But when I received a call while skiing with my family in Colorado, asking me to hop on a Zoom call, I didn’t know what to expect. To my surprise, they offered me the captaincy. It was a surreal moment, and I couldn’t help but think about how fortunate I was.

So, you’re sitting there, having had the Zoom call… What thoughts were going through your mind?

Oh, gosh, what was I thinking? Initially, I wasn’t sure if I should say yes, but the encouragement from my peers pushed me in the right direction. They believed in me and thought I’d be a great captain. When you have the vote of confidence from some of the giants in the game, you can’t ignore it. It just felt right, and I’m grateful for their support.

Guys like Davis Love III, Tiger Woods, Jimmy Furyk, Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, and even the younger players.

Absolutely, these incredible individuals supported my decision. Their backing means a lot to me. It’s great to have the endorsement of those who have done so much for both the game of golf and Ryder Cup USA. I must be doing something right!

Let’s talk about the opening ceremony. It’s the best opportunity to see pro golfers dressed to impress. Often, you’re seen wearing golf clothes designed for performance rather than style.

Oh, here’s an interesting sidebar—I’ve seen how much the younger guys, including some of my own team at Polo, care about their appearance. It’s not just about golf clothes; it’s about their overall fashion sense. And I absolutely love that.

When I started playing in the Ryder Cups, I didn’t even know we had to wear ties! But to answer your question, the opening ceremony is unique because it takes us out of our comfort zones and allows us to showcase a different side. It humanizes us and gives everyone a chance to see golfers mingling with peers and other legends in the game. Plus, we’ll look good! This linen suit is perfect for Italy’s September weather, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Finally, what is your biggest concern regarding the European team?

To be honest, it doesn’t matter who we’re up against. Every player there is incredibly talented, a true professional. Ignore what Vegas says about predictions; it’s all irrelevant. The Ryder Cup is a competition, and anything can happen. While we can certainly learn from our past victories, this is a new opportunity with a new team. We’re focused on giving our best effort and embracing the challenge ahead.

Excitement fills the air as Zach Johnson gears up for the Ryder Cup. With his impeccable taste in fashion, combined with his insightful strategies, Team USA is in good hands. Time will tell if their fashion-forward approach translates into success on the golf course.