Captain’s picks confirmed for European Ryder Cup Team

September 01, 2025

The wait is over. Team Europe’s 12-man lineup for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black (September 26–28) is now confirmed. Captain Luke Donald has named his six captain’s picks to join the six automatic qualifiers, creating a squad full of experience, form, and future promise as Europe aims to defend the Cup on American soil.

With a blend of Ryder Cup veterans and exciting new talent, Donald’s team is built on momentum, chemistry, and belief. The squad includes returning heroes from Europe’s 2023 win, along with one new face making his debut in golf’s most intense team contest.

Automatic Qualifiers

Player Country Ryder Cup Appearances Record
Rory McIlroy Northern Ireland 7 16–12–4
Jon Rahm Spain 3 4–3–1
Robert MacIntyre Scotland 1 2–0–1
Viktor Hovland Norway 2 3–5–2
Tyrrell Hatton England 3 4–4–2
Tommy Fleetwood England 3 6–3–2

Captain’s Picks

Player Country Ryder Cup Appearances Record
Justin Rose England 5 13–8–2
Shane Lowry Ireland 2 2–3–1
Sepp Straka Austria 1 1–2–0
Nicolai Højgaard Denmark 1 0–2–1
Ludvig Åberg Sweden 1 2–2–0

Blending Experience and Promise

This European side offers a powerful blend of reliable experience and exciting new blood. While stalwarts like McIlroy, Rahm, and Rose bring crucial Ryder Cup know-how, the injection of rising stars such as Åberg and Højgaard points to a bright future for Team Europe.

Aiming to Make History

Following Europe’s emphatic 2023 win in Rome, the team now faces the tough task of winning away at the notoriously rowdy Bethpage Black. With momentum, unity, and a captain who has earned their full trust, the squad will be aiming to rewrite history and win on U.S. soil for the first time since 2012.

Let the countdown to golf’s most electrifying team event begin.

Catch the moment Luke Donald named his captain’s picks, plus all the reactions.

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