Rory McIlroy reveals his fears for Europe's golfers ahead of Ryder Cup defence in America
RORY McILROY fears it could be a tough road ahead for Europe's top golfers in the build-up to the Ryder Cup defence at Hazeltine in America later this year.
Rory McIlroy fears for team Europe's defence of the Ryder Cup
The world No 2 has played in the last three triumphant teams but reckons a new-look American side could prevent Darren Clarke's team winning for a record fourth time in a row.
"The Americans will be a young, hungry team," said McIlroy in Dubai on Wednesday as he completed his warm-up for Thursday's first round in the Desert Classic.
"There are going to be a lot of guys on their team that haven't tasted success in the Ryder Cup. They are going to be motivated, hungry and I am sure they won't want to lose again.
'Mesmerising' Rome to host 2022 Ryder Cup
"And they have got a lot of younger players who will want to make that team like Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed."
And McIlroy believes American captain Davis Love III has made a shrewd move by appointing Tiger Woods and Phil Mickleson to his backroom staff.
"They have got everything there possible to win the Ryder Cup back," he added.