Couples, Johnson named U.S. Presidents Cup assistant captains

United States captain Davis Love III officially announced Fred Couples and Zach Johnson as assistant captains for the 2022 Presidents Cup.

The moves were both long-rumored and expected; Couples is a three-time Presidents Cup captain and has served as an assistant in the last three editions of the event, while Johnson was tapped as the 2023 U.S. Ryder Cup captain earlier this year. Love has the option of adding two more assistants to his staff.

Johnson made four Presidents Cup appearances as a player, compiling a 10-6-1 mark. He previously served as an assistant captain to Tiger Woods in the 2019 competition, which saw the Americans overcome a final-day deficit to win the cup at Royal Melbourne. Johnson captured the 2007 Masters and 2015 Open Championship and is a 12-time PGA Tour winner.

“Having played for Davis in past international events, I know how passionate he is about creating a tremendous atmosphere ​​for U.S. Team players to have success, while also ensuring we are prepared to compete each day,” Johnson said. “I’m looking forward to doing all I can to help the team succeed in September.”

Like Johnson, Couples was also a four-time Presidents Cup participant, boasting a record of 9-5-2 in the event. The Americans have won all seven matches where Couples was a captain or assistant captain. Couples won the 1992 Masters and in 2013 was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame.

“Freddie and I have been great friends for over two decades and have enjoyed a lot of success in team competition,” said Love, referencing the duo’s success in the World Cup of Golf. “To add someone with his experience as both a captain and captain’s assistant to our 2022 team will be a wonderful benefit to our players, not to mention the relaxed, calming demeanor he brings to what can be a tense setting.”

The International team, captained by 2008 Masters winner Trevor Immelman, is expected to announce assistant captains some time next week.

The 2022 Presidents Cup begins Sept. 20 at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte. The Americans are the defending champs.