Rory McIlroy’s former representative has expressed skepticism about the prospects of Team USA in the upcoming Ryder Cup tournament. The event is scheduled to occur from September 26 to 28 at the Black Course in Bethpage State Park, New York.
Team Europe currently holds the title after their remarkable 16.5-11.5 victory at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome in 2023. McIlroy, who recently won the Masters, was a standout performer for the team during that event. The European team, led by Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley, is looking to defend their title against the American team, which aims to replicate their record-breaking 2021 victory.
The American team boasts players like JJ Spaun, the US Open champion, and Scottie Scheffler, who has been performing exceptionally well in golf, clinching both the PGA Championship and The Open Championship this year.
Despite the strengths of the American team, McIlroy’s ex-agent believes that Team USA faces challenges in securing a third consecutive home victory. According to him, the American team’s advantages lie in the support of the crowd and the presence of Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked player. However, he notes that Scheffler’s performance in the previous tournament was not exceptional.
In contrast, the ex-agent highlights several strengths of Team Europe, including their consistent pairings, experience in major tournaments, and the emergence of players like Tommy Fleetwood, who recently won the Tour Championship. Fleetwood’s success and popularity are seen as assets for the European team.
The ex-agent emphasizes the personalities and fortitude of the European team, praising their captain, Luke Donald, for his leadership. He observes differences in the body language and excitement levels between the American and European team members, expressing doubt about America’s chances of winning the tournament.
The Ryder Cup is expected to be a closely contested event between the two teams, with both sides showcasing strong players and strategic advantages.