Next week's Ryder Cup is sure to be an intriguing affair, with Europe hoping to redeem themselves in Rome after a very poor showing two years ago.
The American victory at Whistling Straits in 2021 was certainly a comprehensive one, with the 19-9 winning margin the largest the competition had seen in over 50 years.
You can expect a much closer contest this time around. The Europeans have not lost on home soil since 1993, and with the USA having a deeper pool of talent, the top players in Luke Donald's side will need to perform well if they are to regain the trophy.
As well as that, players such as Shane Lowry have built their season around the aim for success in this event. All of that should set up for an exciting competition.
American player hoping to prove Rory McIlroy point at Ryder Cup
Rory McIlroy is one of the best players in the world, with the Holywood native sure to take on a leadership role in the European team during what will be his seventh Ryder Cup appearance.
Team Europe will be hoping that the 34-year old can contribute quite a few points to their tally over the three days of play, although it seems some on the opposite side are already eyeing the chance to beat him at the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club.
Speaking to the Golf Channel, USA team member Wyndham Clark admitted that he is hoping to face McIlroy this year's Ryder Cup, where he hopes to prove that he is a better player than the four-time major winner.
That's exactly who I want. I'd love to play Rory.
I mean, I have the utmost respect for Rory. I mean, he's one of our great ambassadors of our game, he's obviously one of the best of all time and his career is still going.
I have tons of respect for Rory. Because of that respect, I also want to beat him. I like to think I am better than him, and I want to prove that.
I think it would be a little bit of David and Goliath, and I'm hoping I get that chance.
Wyndham Clark had a breakout season on the PGA Tour in 2023, winning the US Open and making the American Ryder Cup team for the first time. While he clearly has a huge amount of respect for Rory McIlroy, he is also looking forward to showcasing his own talents in Rome next week.
It will be interesting to see how things play out once the event kicks off on Friday morning.
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