European captain Pádraig Harrington announced this Wednesday, Henrik Stenson will be the fifth and final vice-captain for the 2020 Ryder Cup, which starts at Whistling Straits next Friday.
The Swede will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Harrington, Wisconsin team, having competed in five of the biennial competitions against the United States (2006, 2008, 2014, 2016 and 2018), being on the side of the winners on three occasions.
During this period, the two-time European Tour number one totaled 11 points for Europe in 19 matches, including three wins in three matches in his last outing at Golf National in 2018, where he ended his week. with a 5 & 4 singles victory over Bubba Watson. He also got the winning point for Europe on his K Club debut in Ireland in 2006, disposing of Vaughn Taylor.
It will be Stenson’s first experience as vice-captain, with the 45-year-old Scandinavian joining compatriot Robert Karlsson, Englishman Luke Donald, German Martin Kaymer and Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell in this role. Between them, the quintet has the experience of 19 Ryder Cups for Europe and 40 points scored.
“Pádraig called me Monday morning and the conversation was not long”
Stenson said: “ It is a great honor to be involved in the European team. I have been a part of five Ryder Cup teams in the past and am very happy to have the opportunity, as Vice Captain, to help Europe in its quest. Pádraig called me on Monday morning and the conversation was not long. I accepted right away and assured him that I, as well as the other vice-captains, were there to help him and assist the team in any way I could. » »
« We have a very strong team, he continued. It’s a mix of great experience and three guys who will be competing in their first Ryder Cup – and it’s a great combination. We’re strong at depth and I can’t wait to be on the pitch and see the boys play. It’s no secret that winning away is always a bit more difficult, but our guys are up to the challenge. I have full confidence in our team. » »
With a particularly experienced team and staff, Pádraig Harrington also said: “ Henrik will bring a lot to all areas, both on and off the course. His record speaks for itself and he has the respect and confidence of all the players. He knows what it takes to win a Ryder Cup and that experience and knowledge will be crucial for us. “
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