A look at Europe’s Ryder Cup team for Bethpage Black showdown

Europe will attempt to defend their title and win in the United States for the first time since 2012 when the Ryder Cup takes place at Bethpage Black in New York from September 26th-28th.

Here, we look at the continental team.

Luke Donald (England)

DOB: 07/12/1977

Playing caps: 4 (2004, 2006, 2010, 2012)

Record as player: Won 10 Lost 4 Halved 1

Previous match as captain: 2023

Returns for a second crack at captaincy after overseeing Europe’s success in Rome two years ago. Having also featured in the winning team in all four of his playing appearances, he was the ideal candidate as Europe seek a first away win since 2012.

Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland)

DOB: 04/05/1989

Caps: 7 (2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2021, 2023)

Record: Won 16 Lost 13 Halved 4

The undoubted linchpin of the European side, having cemented his status among the greats by completing the career grand slam earlier this year. His form understandably tailed off after his long-awaited Masters triumph in April, but he has rarely failed to spark in the Ryder Cup.

Robert MacIntyre (Scotland)

DOB: 03/08/1996

Caps: 1 (2023)

Record: Won 2 Lost 0 Halved 1

The left-hander from Oban has come of age since his rookie appearance two years ago, having won twice on the PGA Tour and finished runner-up at the US Open. Now recognised as one the game’s leading players.

Tommy Fleetwood (England)

DOB: 19/01/1991

Caps: 3 (2018, 2021, 2023)

Record: Won 7 Lost 3 Halved 2

A senior member of the team and proven performer in the event after delivering in spades in Paris and Rome. Capped a fine year – and enhanced his reputation Stateside too – with his maiden PGA Tour victory at the recent Tour Championship.

Justin Rose (England)

DOB: 30/07/1980

Caps: 6 (2008, 2012, 2014,