STRAFFAN, Ireland – Rory McIlroy, after witnessing the way Novak Djokovic handled the boisterous spectators during a US Open victory, is preparing to emulate the tennis player at the upcoming Ryder Cup, which will be held in the United States this month.The European team, led by McIlroy, will face a hostile and partisan crowd at Bethpage Black during the clashes from September 26 to 28. The Americans will seek to regain the cup, two years after their defeat in Rome.Djokovic demonstrated his ability to deal with a similar environment during his US Open quarterfinal match against local favorite Taylor Fritz, and even sent kisses to the fans who were booing him.
McIlroy, who appreciated Djokovic’s attitude, also received a motivational talk from the tennis player in the European team’s locker room before the 2023 Ryder Cup victory, where strategies for dealing with high-pressure moments were discussed.The experience from Rome should be valuable for the European team, which presents only one change in its lineup. Rasmus Hojgaard, who achieved automatic qualification, will be the only rookie on the list of 12 players.McIlroy highlighted Robert MacIntyre, a rookie in Rome and now a regular competitor on the PGA Tour, as an example of how the team has evolved. He believes Europe has a “wonderful opportunity” to win the Ryder Cup as a visitor for the first time since 2012.The golfer acknowledged the strength of the American team and the intensity of their fans, but remained optimistic about Europe’s chances. “We know we’re facing a challenge, but I love the team Luke has put together,” he concluded.Djokovic told us a bit about how to handle those situations in Rome. Maybe we’ll take a page from his book and channel that energy the right way. The most important thing is to control our reaction and emotions. I think the less we get involved, the better it will be for us.
Rory McIlroy
