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2w ago

Luke Donald Shines at PGA Championship While Ryder Cup Selection Challenges Loom

The European captain balances Ryder Cup preparations with a surprise performance at Quail Hollow as eligibility questions for LIV players like Jon Rahm remain unresolved.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 15: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts after his shot on the 16th hole during the first round of the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club on May 15, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
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Mar 20, 2025; Palm Harbor, Florida, USA; Luke Donald plays his shot from the first tee during the first round of the Valspar Championship golf tournament at Innisbrook Resort. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Luke Donald, European Ryder Cup captain, delivered a bogey-free 4-under-par 67 in the first round of the PGA Championship, marking his lowest opening round in a major since 2004.
  • Donald emphasized the importance of experience in high-pressure situations, such as major championships, when considering his six captain’s picks for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.
  • Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton's Ryder Cup eligibility is uncertain as their appeals against World Tour sanctions await a decision from a third-party arbiter.
  • Donald expressed confidence that Rahm, a two-time major winner, will likely earn a spot on the European team based on performance, though no formal assurances have been given.
  • U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley, also performing well at the PGA Championship, stated his focus remains on selecting the best players regardless of tour affiliations.