Luke Donald will try to become the first captain to win three Ryder Cups in a row after being confirmed for a third straight term as Europe’s skipper for next year’s tournament in Ireland.
Donald has won the Ryder Cup four times as a player and also worked twice as vice-captain. As captain, he guided Europe to a 16½-11½ win over the USA in Rome in 2023 and then led a dramatic 15-13 victory in New York last year.
He is the first European captain since Bernard Gallacher (1991–1995) to serve three consecutive terms. Next year’s Ryder Cup will be held at Adare Manor in County Limerick from 17–19 September.
Donald said he feels proud and honoured to lead the team again and is excited about another home Ryder Cup. He admitted he thought his job might be done after winning in New York but believes there is “a little more story to tell.”
The USA have not yet named their captain, although Tiger Woods is reportedly considering taking over from Keegan Bradley.
Europe’s 2025 win in America was their first there since 2012, making Donald only the second captain since Tony Jacklin to win both home and away.
The 48-year-old former world number one was first appointed in 2023 after Henrik Stenson lost the role. He led Europe to a strong win in Rome and then saw his team build a big lead in New York before holding off a late American comeback.
Donald, who also played in Europe’s 2006 win in Ireland, said Irish fans will bring great passion and energy to the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.
