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Luke Donald reacts to Europe’s Ryder Cup win with message for Keegan Bradley
Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Luke Donald has now won back-to-back Ryder Cups as captain, with his latest coming in a tense finish at Bethpage Black.

Europe seemed to have the match in hand before the US rallied late, putting real pressure on the visitors down the stretch.

The Americans closed the gap quickly and looked capable of pulling off a comeback. But Ludvig Aberg picked up an important point, and half points from Matt Fitzpatrick and Shane Lowry helped Europe hold on for a narrow victory.

Donald is now the first European captain to win in the US since Jose Maria Olazabal led Team Europe to victory at Medinah in 2012.

This year’s contest was closer than many expected, and afterwards, Donald shared some praise for his opposite number, Keegan Bradley.

Luke Donald shares thoughts on Keegan Bradley after Europe wins Ryder Cup


Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Donald was quick to get in front of the cameras after the win, clearly overjoyed and moved by what had just happened.

But true to form, he took a moment to acknowledge Bradley and the Americans for their efforts.

“It’s got to be the most stressful 12 hours of my life. Shout out to Keegan and the American team, we knew they would be tough. I did not think they would be this tough. On Sunday they fought so hard, so all the respect to them,” Donald said.

“But this means a lot. We came here knowing that the task was going to be very difficult. I could not be more proud of these guys and what they have gone through. How they have come together, how they are playing for history.”

“How they are playing for the people who came before them and now they will be talked about for generations to come as someone who will go down in history. I could not be more proud.”

When questioned about the adjustments he had implemented since Rome, Donald acknowledged the alterations but emphasized his confidence in his team’s trust.

“Having a repeat captain, I was fortunate to have a team who knew and trusted me. All I have ever tried to do is be the best prepared I can be. So many different things have gone into this. Dealing with the environment and the communication with the players. But so happy for them.”

Luke Donald makes his mark in Ryder Cup history


Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Luke Donald’s impact as European captain is clear, with players speaking openly about the respect they have for him.

There are already calls for him to return in 2027, with many feeling he could be the right person to lead Europe again as they look for a third straight win.

Asked after the win if he would consider another term, Donald laughed it off, saying: “I think I am going to enjoy tonight first!”

No matter what he decides in the future, Donald’s legacy is already secure. He has been world number one and has now won two Ryder Cups as captain.

It is a record that few can match, and he will be remembered as one of the most influential figures in European golf.

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

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