Luke Donald Weighs Choices for 2025 European Ryder Cup Team

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald said he expects Jon Rahm to be part of the 2025 European team if he qualifies. However, Donald made it clear that he has not promised anyone a spot on the team as the competition ramps up.

During a press conference at the PGA Championship on Wednesday, Donald emphasized the need for players to perform to earn their spots. ‘In terms of Jon, he’s one of the best players in the world, and I would expect him to be on that team, but I certainly haven’t given him those assurances,’ he said. The Ryder Cup is scheduled for late September at the Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York.

Rahm, who has struggled to meet his previous high standards in recent major championships, was asked about his status. ‘That’s a question for Luke. It’s his team. Hopefully, I can qualify, and we don’t have to question it,’ said Rahm, currently 29th in the European Ryder Cup standings.

Donald addressed the complexity of selecting players amid the controversies surrounding LIV Golf players. He noted that the European Tour has imposed fines and suspensions on players like Rahm and Tyrell Hatton who participated in LIV events. Donald stated, ‘I do not get involved with the politics of that,’ but acknowledged wanting the best team possible.

Despite Rahm’s lack of wins in LIV events this season, he has consistently placed in the top 10. Donald plans to rely on data analytics as part of his selection process while also considering players’ performances in major tournaments. ‘Statistics and data is really important, but gut instinct and personality matchups is equally as important,’ he added.

Looking at the broader European squad, Donald noted that the players are performing exceptionally well. Rory McIlroy recently won the Masters, and several players have secured victories on the PGA Tour this year. ‘It’s a great problem to have. I love the momentum that we have so far,’ he said.

As the Ryder Cup approaches, Donald will continue to monitor performances closely, knowing that competition for spots will only intensify. He concluded, ‘There’s always going to be one loser, as well, which is the tough part because I’m texting the guys hard luck.’ Ultimately, Donald aims to solidify a strong, competitive European team come September.