We love the Ryder Cup as much as the next blue-and-gold-star-studded fan- but what we’re really looking forward to is everything else that goes on away from the fairways.
Don’t get us wrong, we love the Ryder Cup as much as the next blue-and-gold-star-studded fan- the inevitable drama, the over-the-top screams from American fans, and the best golfers in the world. But what we’re really looking forward to is everything else that goes on away from the fairways.
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past few weeks, you absolutely cannot have escaped Ryder Cup fever. As the tournament returns to European turf, it’s (almost) all the golfing world can talk about. That and Tiger’s monumental comeback victory at the Tour Championship on Sunday, but that too has only helped to make the whole thing even more exciting.
The Teams
Just in case you’re not quite up to scratch with the who’s-who of the Ryder Cup teams, here’s who you’ll be watching this weekend…
The European side will be led by Captain, Thomas Bjorn, and includes five Ryder-Cup-rookies, all of whom were automatic qualifiers: Jon Rahm, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Alex Noren and Thorbjorn Olesen. The other three qualifiers are Rory McIlroy, Francesco Molinari, and recent World Number One and Fedex Cup winner, Justin Rose. Finally, this year’s wild-card picks bring with them plenty of top-level experience: Sergio Garcia, Paul Casey, Henrik Stenson, and Ian Poulter (aka the ‘Postmen’).
From across the pond, the American side looks like this: Bryson DeChambeau, Tony Finau, Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Patrick Reed, Webb Simpson, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Bubba Watson, and Tiger Woods.
The WAG’s
After their defeat two years ago at Hazeltine, Europe are looking for revenge and the chance to return the cup to home soil. And who better to support them in that feat than their oh-so-glamorous wives and girlfriends? Just as the saying goes “behind every strong man is a stronger woman”, the WAGs of the Ryder Cup are set to play their roles on the team.
Justin & Kate Rose
Justin Rose married his wife Kate back in 2006. They have two children and met whilst Kate was working for IMG, the firm that represented the Englishman.
Rory McIlroy & Erica Stoll
New Yorker Erica Stoll was working for the PGA when she met four-time Major winner, Rory McIlroy. The pair have been married since April last year.
Tyrell Hatton & Emily Braisher
Born and bred in Buckinghamshire, Tyrell Hatton’s girlfriend is Emily Braisher. Having recently graduated from Nottingham Trent University, Emily has since decided to travel with Hatton around the world, writing her blog “Wife on Tour”.
Sergio Garcia & Angela Akins
As a former student at the University of Texas, Angela Akins is more than familiar with the golfing world, having played on the university’s golf team. Angela is now a presenter on the Golf Channel.
Tiger Woods & Erica Herman
The man of the moment, Tiger Woods has been seeing his girlfriend Erica Herman since at least last year, when they were pictured together at the Presidents Cup in New Jersey in September 2017.
Dustin Johnson & Paulina Gretzky
There were rumours recently that Dustin and Paulina's relationship was on the rocks, but all is well and she’s standing by her man in Paris.
Ricky Fowler & Allison Stokke
Ricky Fowler's fiance, Allison Stokke, is an athlete in her own right- she is a pole vaulter who rose to fame after photos of her competing in 2007, aged 17, went viral.
The Opening Ceremony
A glittering line-up has also been revealed for the opening ceremony of the Ryder Cup, which will take place on Thursday and promises to be a star-studded affair. Former Spurs and Newcastle legend, David Ginola will host proceedings live from Le Golf National, and fans will be able to enjoy a host of entertainment, including live shows from the Kaiser Chiefs and Jain.
Can Europe Regain the Ryder Cup?
Who is your money on this weekend? Whichever side of the pond you think can clasp the trophy, there's no doubt that we're in for an exciting few days...
Image credit: David Cannon/Andrew Redington/Warren Little/ Harry How/Stan Badz/PGA TOUR/Jamie Squire/Getty Images
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