Luke Donald has clinched another Ryder Cup as European captain, guiding his side to a thrilling win over the USA.
Donald couldn’t believe Europe’s lead after two days at Bethpage Black, which stood at 11.5-4.5 following the foursomes and four-balls events.
But after a phenomenal fightback from the USA, the Europeans only narrowly won the Ryder Cup by a score of 15-13.
Phil Mickelson congratulated the USA team after their Sunday singles performance, a session which they won 8.5-3.5.
But it wasn’t enough for Bradley and his men to pull off a stunning upset, with Donald guiding Europe to back-to-back Ryder Cup titles.
Luke Donald messages Keegan Bradley after winning the Ryder Cup with Europe
He was also the man in charge when the hosts won in Rome in 2023, with Donald now sharing his feelings in the immediate aftermath of the latest triumph.
The European captain wrote on Instagram: “It has been an unbelievable privilege to Captain these 12 men again this week.
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“We set out to create history in New York and to become only the fifth European team to win in America. Today we achieved that. Keegan and the US team deserve huge credit for how they played today.
“We knew they would be formidable opponents and they were. That’s what makes our achievement even more special.
“Incredibly proud to say 47 Europeans have now won the Ryder Cup in America. This is a victory for everyone involved in Team Europe.”
Luke Donald joins exclusive Ryder Cup club after Europe’s win at Bethpage Black
It was indeed a special victory for Team Europe, who can be extremely proud of their efforts throughout the entire week.
They would undoubtedly have wanted a bigger margin of victory and a less nervous finish at Bethpage Black, but their early efforts were ultimately enough to get them over the line.
And while Donald’s close friend Bradley deserves credit for leading an impressive recovery, the European skipper must be the man in the spotlight after more phenomenal leadership.
As per Justin Ray, he’s now part of an exclusive club with the success, joining Walter Hagen, Sam Snead and Arnold Palmer as men with four-plus Ryder Cup wins as a player and two-plus as a captain.
And while he will still be celebrating in New York, the powers that be and indeed everyone associated with Team Europe will be desperate for Donald to continue in his role.
He’s already achieved legendary status, but Europe will already have a major boost ahead of Adare Manor in 2027 if Donald is once again confirmed as their leader.
A very frustrated Bradley meanwhile, who took over from Zach Johnson from Rome, does not look as likely to stay in the role for Ireland in two years’ time.
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