Luke Donald Defines the European Team for the Ryder Cup
European captain Luke Donald has announced the six selections for his Ryder Cup team, as Team Europe seeks its first away win since 2012. Donald, who already had a stellar team, including figures like Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, thus completed a team that is shaping up to be one of the strongest in Europe in recent memory.
Eleven of the players who participated in Rome last year, when Europe won 16½-11½, are returning. However, no visiting team has achieved victory since the “Miracle at Medinah” 13 years ago. The Europeans will face the United States team at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, from September 26 to 28.
The selections for the American team are now known, with captain Keegan Bradley opting not to include himself.
Luke Donald’s Leadership
Donald, who led Europe to a resounding victory in Italy, also hopes to become the first European captain to win on American soil since José María Olazábal with the “Miracle of Medinah”.
“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 said in his announcement statement. “This is one of those moments.”
Luke Donald
Key Players of the European Team
Rory McIlroy: With seven Ryder Cup appearances, McIlroy was the first player to qualify for the European team. His eighth appearance comes after one of his most memorable seasons, including the victory at the 2025 Masters.
Robert McIntyre: The Scot has had a standout season with two second-place finishes and six top-10s. His second Ryder Cup appearance comes after a near-perfect debut in 2023.
Tommy Fleetwood: Fleetwood secured his first PGA Tour victory after many attempts. With seven match wins in the last three editions of the Ryder Cup, he has become a reliable player for the European team.
Justin Rose: At 45 years old, Rose brings experience and talent. He comes to the Ryder Cup in excellent form, having won the FedEx St. Jude Championship in August.
Rasmus Højgaard: Will make his Ryder Cup debut this year after securing the last qualifying spot.
Tyrrell Hatton: The only LIV player to secure automatic qualification for the European team, Hatton will seek his fourth Ryder Cup. He was one of Europe’s best players in the last edition.
Captain’s Selections
Shane Lowry: Lowry, a friend of McIlroy, will bring valuable experience to Donald’s team. He has impressed on the PGA Tour with two second-place finishes this year.
Jon Rahm: Despite his position in the European ranking, Rahm was a safe choice. With two LIV Golf titles and a good performance in the majors, Rahm is a key player for the team.
Sepp Straka: Although his form has been unstable since May, Straka remains an important option for the team.
Viktor Hovland: After a shaky start in 2025, Hovland secured his spot with a win at the Valspar. He has a great track record in the Ryder Cup.
Ludvig Aberg: Marco Simone’s breakout star, Aberg, will be looking to improve on his record in his second appearance.
Matt Fitzpatrick: Fitzpatrick secured his fourth Ryder Cup appearance thanks to his recent form, although his record needs improvement.
