Luke Donald Defines the European Team for the 2025 Ryder Cup
Captain Luke Donald has announced the six selections for the European Ryder Cup team, with an eye on securing their first away victory since 2012. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the team’s preparation for the tournament to be held at Bethpage Black, Farmingdale, New York, from September 26 to 28.
Donald, who already had a stellar team led by figures like Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, has completed what appears to be one of the strongest European teams in recent memory. Eleven players from the team that competed in Rome last year, where Europe won 16½-11½, are returning for this edition.
“Great opportunities don’t come along very often in life and I firmly believe that when they do, you have to seize them with both hands,” Donald declared.
Luke Donald
The American team is also defined, with captain Keegan Bradley opting not to include himself.
Key Players of the European Team
Rory McIlroy: The Northern Irish player, with seven Ryder Cup appearances, arrives after a memorable season, including the victory at the 2025 Masters. His individual record is 16 wins, 13 losses, and 4 ties.
Robert McIntyre: With a previous appearance in the Ryder Cup, McIntyre has had an outstanding season with two runner-up finishes and six top-10s. His individual record is 2 wins, 0 losses, and 1 tie.
Tommy Fleetwood: Fleetwood has been a consistent contributor to the European team in his three appearances, with seven match wins. His individual record is 7 wins, 3 losses, and 2 ties.
Justin Rose: At 45 years old, Rose brings experience and talent to the team. He arrives in excellent form, with a victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
Rasmus Højgaard: He will debut in the Ryder Cup this year. Despite not having had his best season, Højgaard will seek to stand out in his first participation.
Tyrrell Hatton: The only LIV Golf player to qualify, Hatton will seek to maintain his good performance, after winning three of his four matches in the previous edition.
Captain’s Picks
Shane Lowry: Lowry, a close friend of McIlroy, brings experience to the team and will seek to improve his performance in the Ryder Cup.
Jon Rahm: Despite his position in the European ranking, Rahm is a key player in the team, with an impressive track record in the Ryder Cup.
Sepp Straka: Although his form has been inconsistent recently, Straka has shown his potential and remains a valuable option.
Viktor Hovland: Hovland has had a varied season, but his recent form secured him a place on the team, with a solid Ryder Cup record.
Ludvig Aberg: The breakout star of the previous edition, Aberg will seek to consolidate his position and improve his record in his second participation.
Matt Fitzpatrick: Despite a less favorable individual record, Fitzpatrick has shown good form recently and will look to contribute to the team.
