Europe Conquers the Ryder Cup: McIlroy Prophet and the Triumph in USA

McIlroy Leads European Victory at the Ryder Cup

In Farmingdale, New York, Rory McIlroy was the focus of attention after the European victory in the Ryder Cup. Two years after predicting the triumph at Bethpage Black, McIlroy’s comments came true thanks to Shane Lowry’s birdie on the 18th hole. The celebration, however, began without him. Lowry, euphoric, danced to the rhythm of a European crowd that acclaimed him. Jon Rahm embraced his compatriot and vice-captain José María Olazábal, who was moved to tears. The European captain, Luke Donald, could finally breathe easy. McIlroy, after losing his individual match against Scottie Scheffler, stayed on the course, supporting his teammates. Even after Lowry’s putt that secured the cup, he remained present until the last match, which sealed the European victory by 15-13.

“It’s good to be right. I’m not always right,” McIlroy commented on his prediction. “I think when we won in Rome, everything was set in motion to try and do something that hadn’t been achieved in over a decade. We believed a lot in our continuity.”

Rory McIlroy

Beyond the continuity of the players, the cohesion of the European team is evident. It manifests in the way they celebrate each victory and in how they support each other in difficult moments. This unity is key, allowing them to lead and resist the American offensive.

Team play is the strength of the Europeans, which allowed them to gain an insurmountable advantage and counteract the points earned by the American team. In the last Ryder Cups, the United States has had the advantage in individual talent. However, the Europeans have shown that chemistry, emotion, and precision are as important as talent.

“Ryder Cup weeks are the best of our lives,” Donald said. “We spend time together that we remember and cherish, and that’s a big part of my captaincy: creating an environment where these guys have the best weeks of their lives.”

Luke Donald

Captain Donald has perfected the balance between tangible and intangible preparation. He cares about every detail, from the design of the uniforms to the comfort of the players’ rooms. The goal is to create an environment conducive to success. Justin Rose highlighted the importance of the group and unity as key factors for success. Despite the pressure, the Europeans managed to maintain focus and determination.

At the end of the day, McIlroy, exhausted, went up to the 18th hole, being cheered by the European fans. This triumph adds to his legacy, consolidating his position as a Grand Slam champion and a key player in another away victory.

“We will always remember this. We will go down in history,” Donald said. “Future generations will talk about this team and how they were able to overcome one of the most difficult environments in the sport, and that’s what inspires me, what Rory and the other 11 understand.”

Luke Donald

As Donald finished his words, McIlroy, sitting next to him, wiped away his tears, moved by the victory.