While competing for Team Europe at the Ryder Cup on U.S. soil this weekend, Rory McIlroy, the reigning Masters champion and one of the sport’s most decorated golfers, took the opportunity to praise the United States as ‘the best country in the world.’ The Northern Ireland native, now based in Hollywood, Florida, spoke of his deep appreciation for American opportunities and the work ethic that defines the nation. McIlroy, who has been competing on the PGA Tour since 2010, has called the U.S., ‘the land of opportunity,’ a sentiment that resonates with his personal journey and the success he has achieved in the country.
Despite representing Team Europe in the Ryder Cup, McIlroy emphasized his strong affinity for the United States, where he has built his career and where his wife and daughter are American citizens. The golfer, who has a 5-2 record in his seven Ryder Cup appearances, stated that his success is deeply tied to the opportunities the country has provided. ‘I am unbelievably grateful and lucky that I got to come to America early on,’ he said. ‘I think success is celebrated here. I think there’s a wonderful sense of work ethic. And yeah, I live here. My wife is American. My daughter is American. I have a lot of affinity towards this country, and I think everyone that lives here should have that same affinity because it is, it’s a wonderful place.’ His comments reflect a personal connection to the United States, which stands in contrast to some of his teammates’ criticisms of American politics or culture.
McIlroy’s remarks were made as Team Europe looked to reclaim their dominance in the Ryder Cup, having won on American soil in 2012. The 2023 event at Bethpage Black is a significant opportunity for the European team to add to their legacy, and McIlroy’s personal admiration for the U.S. underscores the complexity of the competition, which is both a test of golfing skill and a reflection of international rivalries and personal ties. His statements also come in the context of broader discussions about the political climate in the U.S. and its impact on international athletes and events. As the Ryder Cup unfolds, McIlroy’s words may serve as a reminder that while competition is fierce, personal connections and shared values can sometimes bridge the gap between nations.