The Ryder Cup returns later this month and the stage is set at Bethpage Black in New York, one of the toughest courses in the world and a venue that promises raucous home support for Team USA.
Europe are the defending champions after their emotional win in Rome in 2023, but it’s worth remembering that they haven’t won on American soil since the “Miracle at Medinah” in 2012. That adds huge pressure to captain Luke Donald and his team as they look to defend the trophy in hostile territory.
Captain and Vice-Captains
Luke Donald remains at the helm after masterminding Europe’s 2023 victory. Calm, meticulous, and tactically sharp, he becomes the first European captain to be retained since Bernard Gallacher in the 1990s. Donald is supported by an experienced backroom team: Thomas Bjørn, Edoardo Molinari, Francesco Molinari, Alex Norén, and José María Olazábal.
Olazábal’s involvement is especially significant. A Ryder Cup legend, two-time Masters champion, and captain of the last European team to win in America, he knows exactly what it takes to silence a U.S. crowd. The Molinari brothers bring analytical detail and first-hand experience, while Bjørn and Norén offer leadership and a steadying presence in the team room.
The European Team
Rory McIlroy leads the side as Europe’s talisman. Fresh off completing the career Grand Slam with his Masters win in 2025, this will be his eighth Ryder Cup. McIlroy has shouldered the responsibility of being Europe’s figurehead for over a decade and will again be asked to set the tone.
Jon Rahm remains one of the most powerful weapons in Donald’s arsenal. Despite his move to LIV Golf, Rahm has kept his eligibility by continuing to meet the requirements on the DP World Tour. A fiery competitor, he thrives in match play and has already built a formidable Ryder Cup record since debuting in 2018.
Viktor Hovland is another cornerstone. The Norwegian’s consistency and calm under pressure made him invaluable in 2021 and 2023, and he’ll be trusted in both foursomes and singles.
Tommy Fleetwood is a fan favourite who has built his reputation as a Ryder Cup specialist, especially since his unforgettable partnership with Francesco Molinari in Paris in 2018. He brings both passion and proven points.
Justin Rose, one of the veterans of the side, returns once again. With multiple Ryder Cups behind him, including the famous “Miracle at Medinah,” his experience is priceless. Rose is the kind of steady hand every captain needs.
Tyrrell Hatton will play his fourth Ryder Cup. Now a LIV player, he qualified automatically thanks to his form in majors and DP World Tour events. Known for his fire and competitiveness, Hatton can be volatile, but that edge has often turned matches Europe’s way.
Shane Lowry is a captain’s pick, selected for his grit and big-tournament temperament. A former Open champion, Lowry embodies the kind of fighting spirit that Europe relies on in tough away matches.
Matt Fitzpatrick, another major winner, brings a steady game and experience from several Ryder Cups. While his early Ryder Cup outings were modest, he has matured into a more battle-hardened competitor.
Robert MacIntyre made a strong impression as a rookie in 2023, going undefeated and showing fearlessness under pressure. He has since grown into a more complete player and could prove a key asset again.
Ludvig Åberg, one of the brightest young stars in world golf, makes his second appearance. His rise has been meteoric, and while he lacks experience, his talent and composure could be decisive in foursomes or four-balls.
Rasmus Højgaard is another rookie in 2025, part of a new generation of Europeans emerging from the DP World Tour. Donald will manage his introduction carefully, but rookies often surprise when given the freedom to play without expectation.
Sepp Straka rounds out the team as a captain’s pick. An Austrian with PGA Tour wins to his name, Straka is streaky but capable of producing brilliant golf when he’s hot. His inclusion gives Europe depth and flexibility in pairings.
LIV Golf and Eligibility
One of the major talking points is the presence of LIV Golf players in Europe’s lineup. Both Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton are now part of the breakaway circuit, yet they remain eligible by playing the minimum number of DP World Tour events and fulfilling their obligations. While LIV players no longer earn world ranking points in most cases, their major performances have kept them high in the selection standings. This dynamic adds extra intrigue, as their presence in the team could have been controversial but ultimately strengthens Europe’s chances.
Europe’s Chances at Bethpage Black
Bethpage Black is long, punishing, and will suit big hitters. The New York crowd will be loud and opinionated, and Europe will need not only skill but also resilience to handle the atmosphere. That’s where the blend of experience and youthful fearlessness in this team matters.
The likes of McIlroy, Rahm, and Hovland will carry the heaviest load, but Europe’s depth - players such as Fleetwood, Lowry, and Fitzpatrick - means Donald has multiple pairing options. Rookies like Højgaard and Åberg could provide the spark that tilts momentum in Europe’s favour.
It’s been 13 years since Europe last won away from home. If Donald’s team can find the right balance of passion, strategy, and calm execution, they have every chance of writing another chapter in Ryder Cup history.
