トミー・フリートウッドとジャスティン・ローズ：ライダーカップ2025プレビュー
The pressure is on like never before for team Europe as they prepare to defend their RDER Cup title at the notoriously challenging Beth Page Black Course in New York. But Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose firmly believe that maintaining continuity within the team could be the secret ingredient to successfully holding on to the trophy. Both Fleetwood and Rose were integral parts of the victorious European squad in Rome two years ago. They are among the select group of 11 players alongside a captain and four vice captains who have been retained to defend the title on American soil. However, they and team leader Luke Donald are fully aware that playing in away match presents a completely different set of challenges. The passionate home crowd and the US team’s control over course setup are just two factors that heavily favor the hosts. With these hurdles in mind, Donald has been clear that despite having many of the same players, the strategy this time won’t be a simple rinse and repeat of what worked in Rome. He’s aiming for a fresh approach tailored to the unique demands of Beth Paige Black. Back in Rome, Fleetwood teamed up with Rory Mroy to form the famous Fleetwood Mack duo, which impressively secured two points from two matches. Fleetwood hopes to see a similar partnership flourish again this Friday. “Playing alongside Rory is a true privilege,” Fleetwood shared. “He’s arguably one of the greatest players of our generation, and the energy he brings to the team and the Rder Cup is incredible. If I get the chance to partner with him again, I’d jump at it. Whatever vibe he brings, I’ll be there to support him and be a solid teammate.” He went on to explain the importance of chemistry in partnerships, especially in formats like forsomes where emotional connection and mutual understanding are crucial. Statistics have become a big part of pairing decisions in recent years, he noted. Certain partnerships just click better on paper and on the course. But beyond stats, Team Europe has always been fortunate to have a close-knit group where players genuinely get along, which makes a huge difference. While this year’s European team features only one rookie, Rasmus Hoygard, the squad Fleetwood debuted with had five newcomers. That 2018 team also included veterans like Rose, Ian Palter, Sergio Garcia, and Henrik Stenson. With three of those rookies, Fleetwood, John Rom, and Tier Hatton still competing, it’s clear the team is undergoing a subtle but significant transition. I remember my first RDER Cup team in Paris, Fleetwood recalled. There were a few of us, me, John Tier, and Vice Captain Alex Norin, making our debuts. We joined a team full of what I’d call this era’s European Rder Cup legends. It was pretty special looking back. Since then, Europe has evolved over the last few years into the team we have now, which is a natural progression. This week marks Fleetwood’s fourth Rder Cup appearance. While Rose is stepping onto the course for his seventh, having started his RDER Cup journey a decade before Fleetwood, despite being 11 years his senior, “Justin has always been someone I’ve admired,” Fleetwood said warmly. “He leads by example, quietly without needing to raise his voice. His preparation and conduct on the course speak volumes. I’ve learned a lot from him over the years, and I don’t see him stepping away anytime soon.” Rose, the oldest player on either team by seven years, embraces this role, but resists being labeled just a mentor. People call me the elder statesman, but I don’t really see myself that way, he said. I’m still passionate about my game and want to contribute by earning points, not just offering advice. He also highlighted the diversity within team Europe as a strength. We come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, and that’s what makes our team special. I’m always open to sharing my experience if anyone wants to ask, but I don’t feel the need to be the one putting my arm around people. The fact that 11 out of 12 players are returning competitors is remarkable, especially for an away Rder Cup. The best way to lead is by being the best version of yourself, Rose added. At the last Ryder Cup, I focused on what works for me and led by example. Leadership has become a central theme in modern RDER Cups with captains deeply involved not just in the team room, but in every aspect of preparation. Luke Donald wasn’t originally slated to captain in 2023, but the enthusiastic chance of two more years after Europe’s win in Rome showed how much faith the team has in him. Having played alongside Donald during the famous Miracle of Madina, Rose has had a front row seat to his growth as a leader. Luke has always been more introverted, focused on his own game, Rose explained. But over the past few years, he’s really blossomed as a leader. He’s invested heavily in himself and the role, learning and growing tremendously. Rose praised Donald’s work ethic and communication style, which he described as clear, consistent, and straightforward qualities that help players focus on what truly matters, performing on the course. Luke has made countless decisions behind the scenes to simplify things for us, Rose said. That’s the essence of good captaincy, making it so the players don’t have to worry about anything else. I have huge respect for how much he’s put into this captaincy cycle. But here’s where it gets controversial. Is relying on continuity and experience enough to overcome the fierce home advantage and course challenges in New York? Or does team Europe risk becoming too predictable? What do you think? Does sticking with a familiar core give Europe the edge? Or is it time for bold new strategies and fresh faces? Share your thoughts below. Let’s get the debate started.
Join us as Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose prepare for the Ryder Cup 2025 at Bethpage Black. Discover their insights on continuity in Team Europe, the importance of partnerships, and how they plan to tackle the challenges of an away match. We’ll discuss key strategies, their past experiences, and what it means to be part of this iconic event. Don’t miss out on exclusive insights from two of Team Europe’s stalwarts!
