Henrik Stenson named European captain for 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone

Henrik Stenson named European captain for 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone

Henrik Stenson

Sweden’s Henrik Stenson is set to lead Europe’s attempt to regain the 2023 Ryder Cup against the United States at Marco Simone in Rome. The 44th edition of the tournament will be held at the Italian course, which has been completely redeveloped for the biennial event, from 29 September to 1 October.

The 45-year-old was vice-captain to the Irishman Padraig Harrington last September when the European side lost by a record 19-9 margin. Notably, the 2016 Open champion played in five Ryder Cups, clinching the title three times.

“He comes with all the credibility of what he has achieved, and as we all know a dry a sense of humour and a fantastic warm personality,” said Guy Kinnings, the European Ryder Cup director, who believes Stenson has the ideal credentials for the role. “But he is also a ferocious competitor. He is hugely respected by the players and admired by everyone involved with the game and the Ryder Cup.”

FS Video

“Absolutely thrilled to be the European Ryder Cup captain”

Henrik Stenson
Henrik Stenson

Stenson won 11 points from 19 Ryder Cup matches following his debut back in 2006 when he holed the winning putt. Moreover, he’s now also the first Swede to captain Europe in the event.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be the European Ryder Cup captain – it is a huge honour and I was humbled to get the call confirming the news,” Stenson said.

“I will do everything in my power and leave no stone unturned in the quest to get the Ryder Cup back in European hands.”

“The Ryder Cup is golf, and sport, at its very best. I got goosebumps every time I pulled on a European shirt as a player and that will be magnified in the role of captain,” Stenson added.

He concluded: “When I started as a professional golfer, it was beyond my wildest dreams that, one day, I would follow in the footsteps of legends of the game such as Seve [Ballesteros] and be European Ryder Cup captain. But today proves that, sometimes, dreams do come true.”

Also Read | Zach Johnson appointed as Team US captain for 2023 Ryder Cup