Bob MacIntyre and Rory McIlroy can be golf’s Roman Emperors as Luke Donald plots Open takeover to dethrone USA

Luke Donald Rallies Behind Rory McIlroy and Europe’s Elite in Pursuit of Major Glory

European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald is backing Rory McIlroy and his formidable team, dubbed the ‘Roman Emperors,’ to reclaim dominance in golf’s Major tournaments from the USA.

The twelve European stars who led the charge at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club are now set to challenge at Royal Troon. Despite their recent setback as a team in Italy, individual American golfers have maintained a firm grip on the sport’s top prizes. Brian Harman’s victory at Hoylake last year began a clean sweep, with Scottie Scheffler taking the Masters, Xander Schauffele winning the USPGA Championship, and Bryson DeChambeau capturing the US Open.

 

McIlroy narrowly missed out on a Major win, edged out by DeChambeau at Pinehurst. However, Donald is confident in McIlroy’s ability to bounce back. Reflecting on McIlroy’s resilience, Donald recalled his player’s remarkable recovery from a tumultuous Saturday evening incident in Rome, which fueled Europe’s triumphant Ryder Cup performance.

 

“Rory’s game looked exceptionally solid on Monday,” Donald said. “Watching him play all 18 holes, I was impressed. His spirits are high, and he’s taking positives from his recent disappointment at the US Open, learning from his mistakes. That’s what great players do—they rebound from tough moments.”

 

McIlroy’s leadership extends beyond the course. Known for his influence in the team room, he embraces a mentoring role, supporting rookies and fostering a sense of unity. “Rory’s always tremendous in the team room,” Donald added. “He steps up among the players, is vocal, and makes everyone feel welcome.”

 

Donald also highlighted other European contenders for the Open, including Jon Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Ludvig Åberg, Shane Lowry, and Scotland’s Bob MacIntyre. “This year isn’t as critical as next, but any positive performance from our players is encouraging. I’d be thrilled to see any of them win this week,” Donald said.

 

Addressing the LIV Golf controversy, Donald made it clear that the LIV status of Rahm and Hatton would not affect their potential selection for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage. “I want to pick the strongest players available,” he said. “There is a pathway for those guys, and my focus is on getting the best team ready for New York.”

 

Donald also discussed the unexpected appointment of Keegan Bradley as the 2025 Ryder Cup captain after Tiger Woods declined the role. “Tiger has a lot on his plate and felt he couldn’t commit the time required. Keegan’s selection was a surprise, but he’s ready to step up.”

 

As Donald and his European squad prepare for Royal Troon, the golfing world eagerly watches to see if McIlroy and his Roman Emperors can wrestle Major control back from the USA and signal a new era of European dominance.