Major champion offers dismal verdict of Ryder Cup captaincy chances

Major Champion Offers Dismal Verdict of Ryder Cup Captaincy Chances

Former Open champion Henrik Stenson appears convinced he will never captain the European Ryder Cup team. Despite his remarkable record and past leadership roles, his move to LIV Golf seems to have ended that possibility.

Henrik Stenson’s Ryder Cup Legacy

The Swedish golfer represented Europe numerous times, achieving a strong record of 10-7-2 in Ryder Cup play. He also served as vice-captain under Padraig Harrington in 2021 before being named captain himself.

The Impact of LIV Golf

Stenson’s decision to join LIV Golf in 2022 caused major ripples in the sport. As a direct consequence, the 47-year-old lost his role as European captain.

Luke Donald’s Rise

Following Stenson’s removal, former World No. 1 Luke Donald assumed the captaincy. Europe’s recent victory over the United States made Donald only the second man, after Tony Jacklin, to lead Europe to both home and away Ryder Cup triumphs. Jacklin had achieved this feat in 1985 and 1987.

Speculation About Future Leadership

Reports suggest Donald is considering whether to continue as captain for a third term when the next matches take place in Ireland in 2027. Sources indicate he has been granted time to make a decision.

Possible Successor

Should Donald decline the opportunity, expectations point toward Francesco Molinari, another former Open champion, as the likely successor. Molinari is the elder brother of Edoardo Molinari, Europe’s analytical strategist.

Henrik Stenson appears confident there is zero chance he will ever captain the European Ryder Cup team.

Author’s summary: Stenson’s departure to LIV Golf ended his Ryder Cup captaincy hopes, paving the way for Luke Donald’s historic success and sparking speculation about future leadership.

GolfMagic — 2025-11-04