European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald said he was pleased to have the opportunity to lead his team again, this time in the 45th edition of the golf’s oldest team game on Bethpage Black’s U.S. land.
Donald directed Europe to win at Marco Simone in 2023, describing the past three and a half years as “one of the most meaningful things” of his life. “It’s an honor, obviously there’s a chance to be a home, one person doesn’t have many people,” he said.
The British expressed confidence in his side’s preparation and solidarity, noting that 11 of the 12 players from Rome have re-entered the game this year.
“It’s a very similar team, it’s unusual, and 11 have never happened in our history of Ryder Cup teams in Europe. So we have a lot of cohesion. I certainly don’t have to work with these guys because of what we did two years ago.”
Bethpage Strategy
Regarding the challenge of Bethpage Black, Donald acknowledged the difficulties of the prestigious public course, but suggested that this would reward aggressive competitions.
“Bethpage is a tough route, but it certainly doesn’t build like the U.S. Open. You’re going to have to expect to go there to make some birdies. These are world-class players.”
As the captain, Donald
“Ultimately, it’s my job to get those guys to be the right mindset and perform the best. If things go wrong, then, yes, there are a lot of questions targeting me, and that’s what you take as a captain.”
Remember the great man
He also emphasized the importance of solidarity and symbolism. The European team wore salmon pink in practice, which was the nod in 1987, and it was Europe’s first victory on American soil.
“It’s always important to assemble around something. History and our unity, to celebrate what we did in the past and the legends before us. It can be done, and it’s done, and we’re here to try again.”
Donald added that creating memories outside of competition is part of his role. “My job is to be, obviously, ready for them, but create an experience for them that they will never forget. We want to create one of the funniest week they have on and below the golf course.”
As for his personal approach, Donald says he has learned to accept the scale of the role. “It’s not easy to be a captain. There’s a lot of accumulation, a lot of them.
You may be swallowed by small details and swallowed. But we both need to embrace it and enjoy it because these opportunities you won’t get often. It’s incredible to have a chance to do this twice. Of course, this is something I will never take for granted. ”
As the accumulation ends, Donald is eager to start taking action. “It’s been a long accumulation and it’s time for guys to play.”
