Straka will be used in the quartet at the Ryder Cup

“I can’t even imagine what it would be like on the first tee,” Straka said in an initial reaction. Even in the final training session on Thursday, it was “really crazy” as the lineups were not yet full. He called Lowry a legend. “He’s been playing well for a long time. Of course I’m very happy to have him by my side,” said the 30-year-old. Lowry felt the same way. “Seb has played fantastic all year, every week. “I am happy to be in the fight with him.”

The 44th edition of the continental comparison of the world’s best golfers will be opened by Jon Rahm and Terrell Hatton at 7:35 a.m. against world No. 1s Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns. After that, Viktor Hovland and Ludwig Aberg vs. Max Homa and Brian Harman. Following Straka’s debut, which he was right to assume would be taken into account from the start, world number two Rory McIlroy will compete with Tommy Fleetwood against Xander Scheufele and Patrick Cantlay.

Donald relies on two starters to start with: Straka and Aberg. “It’s not just about what I’ve seen this week, but throughout the last year, a little less than Ludwig. I’m a big fan of these two players. They’re very stable,” said the European captain, praising the new duo. Straka’s strong form also speaks for him. Donald confirmed: “He doesn’t make many mistakes.”

In Foursome, players in teams of two take turns hitting the same ball, and only then are players selected for the four Fourballs duels, which take place on Friday afternoons. It remains to be seen whether Straka will play a role as well. Donald’s plan was to use all twelve players on opening day, also due to the very warm weather. “The first two days are important, but we also have to make sure the players are still fresh and ready for Sunday. There are still important points to be gained,” the 45-year-old said.

On Friday, golf stars will appear in sportswear again. Things were different at the opening, you had to wear a suit. Straka had the honor of sitting in the front row. “We will do everything we can to get the trophy back in our hands,” Donald promised. But the American team also keeps this in mind. Johnson said: “I am happy with the way things are going and I am very optimistic and confident, even though we are facing a very strong opponent.” At the junior level, America’s talent suffered defeat. Europe achieved a clear victory in the Junior Ryder Cup with a score of 20.5:9.5.