Overview

• Donald said McIlroy’s love for the Ryder Cup and his visible emotion around the event make him strong captain material.
• Pressed on 2027 at Adare Manor, Donald said he is still enjoying the latest win and would help the next leader if he is not selected.
• Donald has led Europe to consecutive victories, winning at Marco Simone in 2023 and at Bethpage Black in 2025.
• McIlroy went 3-1-1 at Bethpage and dealt with repeated taunts from sections of the crowd.
• McIlroy has previously rejected the idea of serving as a playing captain, citing the heavy media and management demands of the role.