Luke Donald is set to discuss the possibility of becoming the Ryder Cup captain for the third time in 2027 with DP World Tour officials in Dubai this week. Shane Lowry, known for his success at Bethpage Black, has voiced his support for Donald to continue leading the European team.
As the former world No.1, Donald led Europe to a remarkable victory in Long Island last September, following a successful campaign in Rome in 2021. Notably, no European captain has secured three Ryder Cup wins, with only Tony Jacklin and Bernard Gallacher achieving the feat more than twice.
Currently competing at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, Donald, aged 48, will engage in discussions with DP World’s CEO, Guy Kinnings, regarding the Ryder Cup captaincy. A decision is expected from Europe in the coming months, with an announcement typically made in March.
Expressing his thoughts on the potential captaincy, Donald mentioned, “I will sit down for a chat with Guy this week just to see where I am. If I do it again, it will be full-steam ahead and put everything I can into it. Just got to weigh up the pros and cons really.”
Lowry, who played a crucial role in securing the Ryder Cup in New York, believes that Donald is the right choice for the role. He stated, “I think it’s Luke’s if he wants it. It’s a big undertaking for him, and he’s obviously been very successful.”
Acknowledging the considerations involved in the decision, Lowry added, “It is his decision. It is a big undertaking for him, and it’s also a big undertaking for his family because he will be travelling a lot more.”
Donald mentioned receiving support from fellow players like Rory McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick, who have encouraged his potential return as captain. Notably, Vice-captain options include Francesco Molinari and Justin Rose if Donald opts against taking up the position again.
