Donald is targeting Ryder Cup folklore

LUKE Donald is targeting “Ryder Cup folklore” as he aims to lead Europe to a rare away victory as play starts today.

- BY JONATHAN VEAL

Luke Donald speaks at the opening ceremony

Donald, who masterminded success in Rome in 2023, could become just the second European captain after Tony Jacklin to win the competition home and away if his side can get over the line at Bethpage Black this week.

But European victories on this side of the Atlantic do not happen often.

Indeed, their only win on American soil in the last 20 years came courtesy of the ‘Miracle of Medinah’ in 2012, when Jose Maria Olazabal’s side overturned a 10-6 deficit on the final day.

Victories in 1987, 1995 and 2004 are even further in the past, so Donald knows just how big an achievement it would be to win in New York.

“Make no mistake, our players are ready,” Donald said in his speech at Wednesday's opening ceremony, brought forward 24 hours due to an inclement weather forecast on Thursday.