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Keegan Bradley admits he will "not ever recover from" Team America's loss to Europe after enduring "one of the toughest times" of his life since the loss at Bethpage.

This seasoned golfer led the American squad at Bethpage this past fall, overseeing a disastrous campaign while the European team clinched a narrow win.

Bradley's appointment made him the youngest captain for either team since Arnold Palmer in 1963.

However, he conceded that some decisions were mistakes after his pairings and course set-up faced scrutiny and criticism in the aftermath, as Europe became the initial squad to win away in over a decade.

"After the tournament, this period has been among the most challenging moments of my career," stated the captain in his first news conference since the event.

"You win, the honor lasts forever - but I didn't and I must live with this outcome permanently."

"There's no part of me that this will ever fade. This event has been so brutal to me. I will always question and wish."

Notwithstanding a Dramatic Final Day Fightback Effort

Even with a inspiring last-round rally effort, the American team faced an insurmountable challenge after Europe established a 5½-2½ lead on the opening day and extended that to 11½-4½ after the second day - the biggest lead going into the final day in modern Ryder Cup history.

And although the home team secured 8.5 points in the individual contests, it proved insufficient.

"You invest enormous effort, with extensive preparation, and the first two days went as poorly as we could have ever thought," said Bradley.

Leader's Individual Challenges

It was anticipated to fulfil a player-captain role yet experienced a "shift in perspective" earlier this year and decided against competing at the venue.

"During the initial training session, I stood on the tee box, and I was watching the players proceed down the course all together, and I thought 'I wish I was playing - that's what it's all about. I'm missing out.'"

However, Bradley asserts his choice was correct in omitting himself from the team because he was "physically exhausted" by the second day of the match.

"I just didn't think handling both roles was impossible," he stated.

A History in the Tournament Setbacks

Bradley has experienced defeat in three tournaments as a player and captain. He has yet to open his luggage since the 2012 loss at Medinah and also was a member of the losing US side at Gleneagles a decade ago.

And, although uncertain if he will get the chance again, he affirms he will continue to offer his services for future editions.

The next Ryder Cup will occur at Adare Manor from September 17-19 the coming years.