When Brooks Koepka fired a 63 at Bethpage Black in 2019, he broke a course record that had stood since 2016. The previous record holder? A three-time PGA Tour winner whose single round of brilliance would later become both his greatest credential and his biggest regret.

Johnson Wagner knew Bethpage Black better than most. He had conquered the notorious course with a stunning 64 in the final round of the 2016 Barclays Championship. That performance tied Padraig Harrington’s existing course record. More importantly, it propelled him into the following week’s tournament. Yet despite this impressive resume at the 2025 Ryder Cup venue, Wagner won’t be part of Keegan Bradley’s team this September.

The reason traces back to a conversation that still haunts Wagner today. During a recent appearance on GOLF’s Subpar podcast, the Golf Channel analyst revealed how his own pride derailed his Ryder Cup aspirations. The story begins with Davis Love III’s captaincy of the 2022 Presidents Cup at Quail Hollow Club. Wagner, a member at Quail Hollow, desperately wanted to contribute to the team effort. He approached Love during a practice round with ambitious intentions. “I’ll do anything to be a part of that team,” Wagner told the captain. “Whatever it takes, I just want to be a part of it.”

Love’s response, however, wasn’t what Wagner expected. The captain suggested that players like Rickie Fowler, Bubba Watson, and Patrick Reed “always need specific snacks brought out to them on the golf course.” Wagner’s reaction was immediate and visceral. “What? I mean, like I mean, really?” he responded. The conversation ended there. Wagner didn’t speak to Love for the remainder of their round.

Then came the reality check. During the Presidents Cup, Wagner watched Webb Simpson, who served as an assistant captain. Simpson confirmed what Love had suggested. “Well, to tell you the truth, all I’m doing is bringing snacks out to guys all day long,” Simpson revealed. Wagner realized his mistake immediately.

“I feel like had I taken that role, maybe I could have a role on this Ryder Cup team,” Wagner admitted. “But, that didn’t materialize. So, I feel like I messed that one up.”

Johnson Wagner’s Broadcasting Success Changes Everything

Wagner’s rejection of the support role reflects a broader struggle with his evolving identity in golf. After capturing victories at the 2008 Shell Houston Open, 2011 Mayakoba Golf Classic, and 2012 Sony Open in Hawaii, his competitive career gradually wound down. His last tour appearance came at the 2022 Butterfield Bermuda Championship, where he missed the cut.

However, Wagner discovered remarkable new success in broadcasting. He joined NBC Sports and the Golf Channel in October 2022, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Wagner’s expertise spans multiple platforms and shows, demonstrating his seamless transition from competitive golf to excellence in media. His viral shot recreations during major coverage have elevated him to cult celebrity status.

The transition from competitor to commentator has proven lucrative and fulfilling. Wagner earned a Sports Emmy as part of NBCUniversal’s 2024 Paris Olympics coverage. His analytical work during major championships demonstrates his in-depth knowledge of the course. Additionally, his regular participation in Pro-Ams keeps him connected to current players.

Nevertheless, Wagner’s broadcasting career showcases his continued desire for team involvement. His regular commentary on Ryder Cup selections and strategy reveals his ongoing passion for team competition. Yet his pride prevented him from accepting the very role that could have maintained his connection to competitive team golf.

The irony runs deeper, considering Wagner’s family golf heritage. His grandfather, MT Johnson, served as a former treasurer of the USGA. Golf runs through Wagner’s bloodline, making his exclusion from team golf particularly painful.

Wagner’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ego in professional golf. His Bethpage course record once positioned him perfectly for a future Ryder Cup role. Instead, his rejection of a support position eliminated that possibility. The timing proves especially cruel, knowing that assistant captains do indeed handle logistical duties like snack delivery.

Looking ahead, Wagner’s broadcasting success provides a different path to golf prominence. However, his Bethpage dreams remain unfulfilled. Sometimes the most significant obstacles aren’t on the course—they’re in our own heads.