Rory McIlroy Eager for Future Role as Ryder Cup Captain but Hopes to Delay Until After 2027

Rory McIlroy has expressed his desire to captain Team Europe in the Ryder Cup but hopes to postpone that role until after 2027. The 36-year-old golfer will make his return to competition at the DP World India Championship this week.

McIlroy’s Aspirations for Ryder Cup Captaincy

During a recent interview, McIlroy stated, “I would love to be the European captain at some point.” He noted that he envisions this role coming after his prime playing days are behind him. McIlroy wants to ensure he can still contribute on the course before considering captaincy.

Reflections on Team Europe’s Success

McIlroy’s comments come on the heels of Europe’s thrilling victory over the USA in the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, where the team won 15-13. He highlighted the impact that current captain Luke Donald and past captains like Paul McGinley have had on his career.

• McIlroy appreciated Donald’s dedication over the past four years.
• He described the learning experiences he gained from previous captains.

Current Season and Race to Dubai

As he prepares for the DP World India Championship, McIlroy is currently leading the Race to Dubai rankings. With three tournaments left, he has accumulated 4084.56 points, ahead of Marco Penge and Tyrrell Hatton.

“This week is important,” McIlroy stated. “It’s a chance to build a cushion before the final events.” He acknowledged the competition, particularly from Penge, who has had an impressive year.

Acknowledging Team Dynamics

Team Europe players, including Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood, have also reflected on their experiences at the Ryder Cup. Lowry noted the intense pressure of making crucial putts, while Fleetwood emphasized the team spirit that drives them to perform.

• Lowry described his pivotal moments during the tournament.
• Fleetwood highlighted the importance of working as a unified team.

Looking Ahead

McIlroy remains focused on his performance and the future. He aims to maintain his competitive edge and possibly guide Team Europe in a leadership role down the line. However, he hopes to delay that opportunity until the mid-2030s when he can ensure he is still a valuable asset on the team.

The DP World India Championship will be broadcast live on Emegypt starting Thursday, featuring a strong lineup of competitors, including McIlroy and other Ryder Cup heroes.