Rory McIlroy discusses the strength of Europe’s Ryder Cup team as they prepare for an intense competition in New York.
Topics covered
Rory McIlroy Confident Ahead of Ryder Cup
As the Ryder Cup approaches, Rory McIlroy asserts that the European team is heading to New York with a stronger and more adaptable roster than two years ago. This confidence comes amid discussions surrounding Sergio Garcia’s absence from the team, which McIlroy addressed directly.
Understanding Sergio Garcia’s Disappointment
Sergio Garcia, a veteran player, had initially registered for the Amgen Irish Open but withdrew prior to captain Luke Donald announcing his wildcard selections. When questioned about Garcia’s frustration, McIlroy responded, “No, I don’t.” He added, “It would have been great for the tournament if Sergio played, but obviously, he was trying to keep himself sharp, I guess, if he did get a pick.”
Despite Garcia’s disappointment, McIlroy believes that the selection of players is justified.
“Luke has assembled a very strong 12 players, and I think the right 12 players,” he stated. While expressing empathy for Garcia’s feelings, McIlroy concluded that he is sure Garcia wishes the team success.
Team Dynamics and Strategic Depth
The European team sees only one change from the victorious squad in Rome, with Rasmus Højgaard stepping in for his twin brother Nicolai. McIlroy is confident that every member of the team has improved since their last competition, noting, “The entire team has played some very good golf between Rome and now.” He believes that the players are now more accomplished than they were two years ago, which adds to their overall strength.
Furthermore, McIlroy emphasized the strategic flexibility available to captain Donald this time around. “When we went to Rome, you had some guys that were purely foursomes players, some purely fourball players. I think now we have a lot of flexibility within that 12 to change the dynamics around a little bit,” he explained, highlighting the versatility of the roster.
Anticipation for a Hostile Environment
Bethpage Black is set to deliver one of the most intense atmospheres in Ryder Cup history, and McIlroy is eager to embrace the challenge. “I’ve said this repeatedly, but I think winning an away Ryder Cup is up there with one of the biggest achievements in the game,” he remarked. He noted that the home team has historically dominated, with every Ryder Cup in the last decade going to the hosts.
With high-profile attendees expected, including US President Donald Trump, McIlroy draws inspiration from other sports. He cited Novak Djokovic as a model for handling pressure in challenging environments, suggesting that the European team can channel that energy into a successful performance.
As the countdown to the Ryder Cup continues, McIlroy’s confidence in his team’s capabilities sets a positive tone for Europe’s chances in New York.
