Europe fuelled by something money cannot buy – Luke Donald takes swipe at USA

Luke Donald took a swipe at the American team ahead of the Ryder Cup by pointing out his European side were “fuelled by something money cannot buy”.

The United States players are being paid for their involvement in the biennial contest for the first time in this week’s event at Bethpage Black.

With Europe’s players having refused to follow suit, the thorny issue has dominated a lot of the build-up in New York.

“The Ryder Cup means so much to each and everyone of us,” said European captain Donald in his speech at Wednesday’s opening ceremony. “It is unlike anything else in our sport.

“It is not about prize money or ranking points, it’s about pride, representing your flag, your shirts and the legacy you leave behind.”

He added: “We are fuelled by something money cannot buy – purpose, brotherhood and a responsibility to honour those who came before us while inspiring those whose time is yet to come.”

Europe are defending the trophy they won in Rome two years ago but are expected to face a raucous, partisan crowd at the course on the outskirts of New York City.

Much has been made of the potentially hostile atmosphere but Donald hopes the quality of his team’s play will win the home supporters over.

He said: “New York is a place where if you show up with talent and a fighting spirit, the city will get behind you, although maybe not if you are wearing European blue this week. We know what awaits us, Bethpage isn’t exactly shy.

“This is New York sports country – passionate, loyal and ferociously loud and rightly so.

“The fans respect effort over ego. You show up for those that grind, those that fight and those who rise to the big occasions. You make us earn every cheer.

“We may not be your team but we will give you something to respect, something to admire and maybe, by the end of this week, something to cheer for.”

Play begins on Friday but the opening ceremony was brought forward 24 hours due to forecast thunderstorms on Thursday.

The pairings for the opening foursomes session will still be announced on Thursday as originally planned.

Donald’s opposite number Keegan Bradley – who accidentally mixed up European veteran Justin Rose with Justin Leonard when referencing the American’s famous putt at the 1999 Ryder Cup at Brookline – ended his speech with a rallying cry to spectators.

Bradley said: “Bethpage Black is known as the People’s Country Club, it’s been called New York’s home course, but this week, with your passion and energy you are going to make it America’s home course.

“We are on a quest to reclaim the Ryder Cup. We face a mighty opponent, the challenge will be fierce, the pressure will be real.”