Team Europe won the 2025 Ryder Cup after an unbelievable final day at Bethpage Black.
The Europeans had an 11.5–4.5 lead before the singles session on Sunday, so they already had one hand on the trophy.
However, the United States showed incredible spirit by winning seven and tying two of the 11 matches, scaring the European team.
Rory McIlroy lost his singles match to Scottie Scheffler, but he can still be immensely proud of his performance at Bethpage Black.
After winning the trophy, McIlroy spoke to a reporter about some comments four years ago that inspired Europe to victory.
- READ MORE: Johnson Wagner ‘horrified’ after what was said to Rory McIlroy by fans at the Ryder Cup on day two
Rory McIlroy shares comments that inspired Team Europe at the Ryder Cup
McIlroy raised eyebrows after Europe won the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome by saying that they would retain their title in New York.
Well, it seems that the Northern Irishman already had one eye on the 2025 Ryder Cup after Europe’s defeat at Whistling Straits four years ago.
Many assumed that the United States would enjoy a period of dominance in the competition, which really ignited a fire inside McIlroy.
“To hear the ‘ole, oles’ here in America. To do something that a lot of people thought we couldn’t do,” McIlroy explained.
“The comments and what people were saying about Whistling Straits about decades of American dominance. We took a lot from that. We let that fuel us.
“We got so lucky in getting an incredible leader in Luke Donald. He has shepherded us through this whole process and been absolutely amazing.
“A lot of the credit has to go to him. 11 of 12 players from Rome came back. We did what we needed to do, and we are going to celebrate like there is no tomorrow.”
Rory McIlroy says he’s ‘extremely proud’ of everyone on the European team
McIlroy was disappointed not to win another point for Europe on Sunday, but his emotions were still overwhelmingly positive.
He explained how proud he was of everyone associated with the European team for an “amazing week” at Bethpage Black.
“I am extremely proud to be a part of this team. I am extremely proud of every one of these players, the vice-captains, the captain, and all the backroom support staff. This was an unbelievable collective effort.
“As soon as we won in Rome, we turned our attention to trying to do something that everyone thought was pretty impossible to do.
“Not just winning in America but winning in New York. It has been an amazing week.”
Receive exclusive golf news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
