Donald: Ryder Cup team inspired by Solheim Cup fightback

Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald believes his team will take inspiration from the brilliant fightback which saw Europe retain the Solheim Cup on Sunday.

Suzann Pettersen's side lost the opening session at Finca Cortesin 4-0, but roared back to secure the first 14-14 draw in the history of the biennial event and, as the holders, maintain their grip on the trophy.

The same result at Marco Simone would not be enough for Donald's side to get their hands on the Ryder Cup following the record defeat at Whistling Straits two years ago, but the spirit on show in Spain has not gone unnoticed by the skipper or his players.

"Obviously, after a very tough start and going down 4-0 to the US, I thought it was a very admirable comeback," Donald said. "Some great golf by both teams.

"When I started watching on Sunday it looked like Europe kind of had it in the bag. They got up early. The US came fighting back and it really didn't look very hopeful at the end.

"And then a couple of players, (Caroline) Hedwall and (Carlota) Ciganda had some amazing turnarounds in their matches and it was enough to get the tie and retain the Cup - and obviously I couldn't be happier for Suzann.

"Certainly a lot of the guys were talking about it. A lot of the guys were posting stuff on their social media and I think that's only good inspiration for our team going forward for this week."

Asked how his heart rate would be if the Ryder Cup came down to a similar finish on Sunday, Donald added: "It would be high.

"I think when you don't have control, when you're watching as a spectator as I will be, not being able to have any control over those shots, I think that's when you really feel nervous.

"We would love to be out there just hitting the shots.

"At least you feel that