Amid Deafening Silence From Rory McIlroy and Co, Down Bad European Team Finds Solace In Ryder Cup Rookie’s Support

September 2023 is quite the month for golf fans. Arguably, two of the biggest tournaments—the Solheim Cup and the Ryder Cup—are being held in quick succession. This is only the third time in history and probably the last time in the foreseeable future that these two events are being held in the same year, and that too back-to-back.

However, despite the two tournaments happening within a matter of weeks, one thing fans noticed was the glaring absence of any cross-promotion between these two. Earlier, US captain Stacy Lewis lamented the lack of collaboration between these two biennial galas. However, amidst all this, one rookie Ryder Cup star’s presence on the sidelines of Finca Cortesin has been a welcome sight for fans and players alike.

The only Ryder Cup star to turn up at Finca Cortesin

Barring a video message, Ryder Cup veterans like Rory Mcllroy, John Rahm, and Shane Lowry have mostly kept mum about its sister tournament. However, one notable exception has been the 23-year-old Ryder Cup rookie, Ludvig Aberg. Already dubbed a ‘generational talent’ by some, the Norwegian prodigy came down to Finca Cortesin to practice and cheer for his female counterparts.

It is astonishing how quickly Aberg has climbed up the ladder in golf. His accomplishments at the young age of 23 have won the hearts of former golfers and analysts alike. Now, with his supportive gesture towards his counterparts in the Solheim Cup, he has won over the hearts of fans as well.

Aberg was spotted cheering for Team Europe. After the host went 4-0 down during the morning session, the Norwegian was asked about his experience at the field. Speaking to Sky Sports Golf on the sidelines of Finca Cortesin, he said, “I got to cheer on the girls playing some good golf and looking forward to a good day.”

Adding further, he claimed that being there was like a warm-up to him. He is surely soaking up the supercharged environment. Aberg also undoubtedly hopes to carry this experience with him to the other side of the Mediterranean when he meets his transatlantic rivals at Marco Simone.

The big question, however, remains as to whether it was just the golfer’s patriotic sense that brought him to Spain. Or is there more to it? Well, there certainly is, and it has everything to do with his caddie!

Ludvig Aberg’s caddie connection to the Solheim Cup

It is to be noted that Madelene Sagstrom, the European team member, is the fiancee of Abarg’s caddie, Jack Clarke. So, even before the tournament started, Abarg decided to be present at the Solheim Cup venue. The rising star decided against participating in the DP World Tour’s Cazoo French Open this week. Instead, he, along with his caddie, jet-setted down to Andalusia to watch the Solheim Cup and do some light practice.

Read More: Solheim Cup Captain Slams “Massive Missed Opportunity” as Nelly Korda and Co. Lurk in the Shadows of Fellow American Patriots

Although only turning pro early this year and not having any major titles under his belt, European captain Luke Donald saw enough in him to pick him for the Ryder Cup squad. For Aberg, a taste of this cutthroat transatlantic rivalry will do well to help him mentally prepare for what’s waiting for him in next week’s grand showdown at Marco Simone.

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