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Luke Donald reaches out to Keegan Bradley with Instagram post a week after the Ryder Cup
Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images

It has been a week since the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, but Luke Donald’s respect for Keegan Bradley has not faded.

Donald, who led his team with composure throughout the event, came away with the win against Bradley’s side. But it was a contest that offered plenty more than just a final score.

The first two days did not go well for Team USA. But Sunday brought a spirited comeback in the singles, nearly turning what looked like a one-sided affair into something remarkable.

However, in the end, it was Shane Lowry who secured victory for Europe with his final putt.

Afterwards, attention shifted to issues around crowd behaviour and questions about rules like the envelope rule. Even so, one thing that stood out was how Donald handled himself during and after the event.

Luke Donald reaches out to Keegan Bradley after the Ryder Cup


Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Donald emerged from the Ryder Cup with a lot of praise and respect.

He led his team well and it is clear why the players perform so well for him.

Posting on Instagram, Donald spoke about his relationship with Bradley and had some supportive words for the US captain.

“I want to take a moment to thank my friend and opposing Captain, Keegan. As I said in my opening ceremony speech last week, I have really valued our friendship over the years and that bond will last well beyond Ryder Cup week.

“Our Captaincy journey and the contest between our two teams will give us memories that we will continue to look back on together for many years to come.

“I watched Keegan closely last week and in the build-up. His passion and love for this event, and for his country, is undeniable. The Sunday charge his players made showed just how much they wanted to win for him, and that says everything about the respect they have for their Captain.

“Unless you’ve walked into that arena, it’s impossible to fully understand the pressures that come with being Captain. He has my full respect, as well as my friendship.”

Luke Donald faces decision on Ryder Cup future after back-to-back wins

It is still unclear if Bradley will get another shot at the Ryder Cup, but for Donald, the conversation has already started.

Jon Rahm has publicly backed Donald to stay on, and there is a growing sense in golf circles that he might be interested in chasing a third straight win.

Paul McGinley mentioned that Donald has already touched on the topic and that talks are ongoing with those involved. Nothing is decided yet, but the option is clearly on the table.

It would be a tough blow for Europe if Donald chose to step away. But after what he has accomplished, it would not be surprising if he felt it was time to finish on top.

Still, three consecutive wins would be hard to walk away from. And from a European perspective, there are not many who would not want him back for another go.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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