Days After PGA Tour Pro’s Historic Patriotic Feat, Rory McIlroy Passionately Sticks Up for the ‘Unbelievable’ Rookie Amid $6M Race: ‘He’s Worthy’

With weeks left until the prestigious Ryder Cup finally commences on Italian soil, the golf world is already humming with anticipation. While the teams on both sides have been locked in for the coveted battle, it has still left the door open for opinions to surround the players who have been able to register their names, either through captain’s picks or automatic qualifications.

The latest of these judgments has come to surround Luke Donald and his European squad. Hence, it is no wonder that the current press conferences have also focused on the same. Being questioned on similar lines, Rory McIlroy, prior to the $6 million event, delivered his verdict concerning the young PGA Tour pro and his historic selection on the team.

Young PGA Tour rookie receives strong backing from fellow Ryder Cup mate Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy, in his recent spotting at the Horizon Irish Open, seemed all praise for captain Luke Donald’s decisions made for the team. While answering the question about the top players on the team, he replied that he was content with having such commendable teammates. However, his main comment revolved around the young Swedish golfer, Ludvig Aberg.

Talking about Aberg’s inclusion in the team, the Northern Irishman sounded utterly impressed by his display of skills. He simply put forth his opinion, stating, “You just have to watch him hit balls on the range at a PGA TOUR event.” Calling him special, McIlroy applauded the young golfer’s “unbelievable” ball-striking abilities.

He added that the viewers in Europe probably do not know about his accomplishments, looking at how he has mostly participated in college golf or games in the States. However, his astonishing gameplay in PGA Tour events and then extending that form to a victory in Switzerland and a fourth position in the Czech Republic should clear all doubts, per McIlroy.

According to the senior player, “He’s [Aberg] worthy of a pick.“And on Sunday, with a win, the young athlete made the job easier for Luke Donald. These statements of the 34-year-old show him to be in full alliance with his captain on the historic pick of Aberg, being the first player to make it into the team without experience at the majors.

Read More: Rory McIlroy Picks Up First PGA Tour Ace in 233 Starts: How Fast Did Tiger Woods Get There?

Donald, earlier, had claimed to be “blown away” by the emerging star, and McIlroy seems to have a similar stance. Overall, besides Aberg, the PGA Tour pro seemed impressed by the team he is going to play alongside in the upcoming Ryder Cup.

McIlroy shows conviction in the 2023 European Ryder Cup squad

While the question fired at the 4-time major winner concerned his opinion regarding the team, it also highlighted the earlier remarks made by Padraig Harrington. Calling the current team a probable replica of the one in the 80s where Europe had their A-game sorted, Harrington expressed his faith in the players.

Rory McIlroy, without any hesitation, affirmed the same. For the 24-time PGA Tour winner, all the players in the European squad presented a “nice blend” of experience and young energy. This, he believed, was crucial for team events, especially ones that demand coordination.

Further underlining Viktor Hovland‘s name, McIlroy called attention to his recent tournament victories. What followed was praise for World No. 3, Jon Rahm, and his achievements this season. Another name that seemed to have left the Northern Irish golfer feeling confident was Tommy Fleetwood. He has been playing his best golf for some time now, per the 34-year-old.

Other names mentioned by the golfer who bring experience to the team include Tyrrell Hatton, Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, and himself. Overall, McIlroy reflected confidence in his team as they gear up for the biennial event.

Watch This Story: ‘Slip Up or Make a Mistake’: Rory McIlroy Reveals His Mindset During the Heartbreaking Match