Golf superstar Rory McIlroy urges his Ryder Cup teammates to remove Novak Djokovic’s book ahead of a showdown in New York this month.
Northern Irish revealed that tennis idols gave European teams an inspiring speech before they beat the Americans in Rome two years ago.
McIlroy also believes that Djokovic, who has fought against hostile crowds throughout his career, could provide the European team with the right template to overcome the partisan atmosphere.
The golfer watched Djokovic in the U.S. Open quarterfinals on Tuesday as the Serbs beat fans’ favorite Taylor Fritz.
Rory McIlroy of Novak Djokovic:
“I looked at Novak last night, and it was a very pro-American crowd and he has always been the best deal with it.pic.twitter.com/jxvw47apdg
– Danny (@djokovicfan_) September 3, 2025
McIlroy was impressed by how the 38-year-old managed to stop the noise and get the job done.
He said: “That’s a very pro-American crowd. He has always been the best person to deal with this.
“Whether it’s against the Americans in New York or against Roger [Federer] Or Lafa [Nadal]. ”
How did Djokovic motivate Roma’s European team?
Europeans will travel to New York, hoping to end their 13-year drought in the United States.
The European team won the Ryder Cup last time in 2012, when they overturned a 10-6 deficit and won 14-13 in the “Medina Miracle”.
McIlroy expects Bethpage supporters to create a fanatic atmosphere – a pro-home atmosphere. With that in mind, he urged his side to guide Djokovic’s approach.
Two years ago, tennis legend helped Europe win by giving motivational speeches to players.
The Northern Irishman said: “He talked to us a little last time in Rome, so maybe [it’s about] Take a leaf out of his book and direct energy in the right way.
“All we can do is control our reactions and emotions. I think the less we are involved, the better for us.”
European captain Luke Donald maintains consistency and experience in his team selection. The captain made six captain draft picks on Monday, with 11 of Roma’s 12 players defeating the tour of New York.
McIlroy focuses on public responsibility in Ireland
Before he thought of the Ryder Cup, McIlroy had a small issue with the Irish Open and could prepare for it.
The event will be held this week at K Club, a familiar lesson for the 36-year-old who won the Irish Open there nine years ago.
“Obviously I would love to win this week, I would love to win at Wentworth next week [the BMW Championship],” he said.
“But if we’re going to win a Ryder Cup, that’s everything else I have this year and 2025 will be the best year of my career.”
Read the next article: Who is here? Who missed it? Luke Donald’s European roster reveals
