Luke Donald will be discussing the possibility of leading the European Ryder Cup team for the third time in 2027 during his visit to Dubai for the DP World Tour this week. Shane Lowry, known for his victory at Bethpage Black, has voiced his support for Donald to continue as the captain for the upcoming event in Ireland.
Having guided Europe to a remarkable away victory in Long Island last September, the former world No.1 is considering the opportunity to make history by becoming the first European captain to win the Ryder Cup three times. The decision-making process is crucial as only Tony Jacklin and Bernard Gallacher have held the captaincy more than twice.
Currently aged 48, Donald is participating in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, marking his first tournament of the year. Alongside his competitive rounds, he will engage in discussions with Guy Kinnings, the DP World chief executive, to assess the responsibilities and expectations associated with the Ryder Cup captaincy. A final decision is expected within the next few months, with the announcement typically made in March.
Expressing his thoughts on the potential role, Donald stated, “I will sit down for a chat with Guy this week just to see where I am. I kinda know what the job entails but just to see what they are looking for. Just a chat. I have got a couple more months to decide. Usually they announce it sometime in March. It is a little bit more work at home.”
Lowry, who played a crucial role in securing a half point to retain the Ryder Cup in New York, shared his belief that Donald is the rightful candidate for the captaincy if he desires to take on the challenge. Acknowledging the significance of the decision, Lowry emphasized the potential for Donald to achieve a historic third consecutive victory.
Reflecting on the possibility, Lowry remarked, “I think it’s Luke’s if he wants it. Does he want it or not? I’m not sure. It’s a big undertaking for him, and he’s obviously been very successful.” Noting the logistical complexities of hosting a home Ryder Cup, Lowry highlighted the extensive planning and commitment required from the captain and their family.
In response to the support from fellow players, Donald mentioned, “A few of the players have obviously expressed they’d love me to come back. I see Rory (McIlroy), and I see Shane and Fitzy (Matt Fitzpatrick) and some of those guys in Florida, quite a lot. I casually asked: ‘Would you want me to do this the third time?’ And they’re like: ‘Yeah, of course, of course.’ So it’s nice to get some of the backing from the players. I think that’s important.”
If Donald opts not to pursue the captaincy, potential candidates for the role include Vice-captain Francesco Molinari or Justin Rose. The decision-making process remains pivotal as Europe prepares for the upcoming Ryder Cup challenge.