Chance for Irish pair to end World Cup pain

Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell finally have the opportunity to make up for the disappointment of losing the World Cup by one shot two years ago.

The two Ulstermen, who once again represent the whole of Ireland on Hainan Island in China, led by three with 11 holes to play in Shenzhen last time, but were beaten when Italy’s Francesco Molinari recovered superbly from sand at the last and brother Edoardo sank the putt.

All four, of course, went on to play their part in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory, but McIlroy and McDowell have also become US Open champions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ireland’s last World Cup winners were Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley in 1997, but McDowell said: “You could say I’ve got myself a decent partner. He’s in great form and the world No 2. You have to be able to motivate and inspire each other and enjoy the experience of being in contention and under pressure, and hopefully enjoy winning together.

“Winning individually is nice, but winning as a team is something extra special.”

The event – now biennial after being staged every year from 1987 to 2009 – features 28 teams, with fourballs on the first and third days and foursomes for the second and fourth rounds.

South Africa also have a pair of major winners in Charl Schwartzel and Louis Oosthuizen, while England are represented by Justin Rose and Ian Poulter, Scotland by Martin Laird and Stephen Gallacher and Wales by Rhys Davies and Jamie Donaldson.

The USA have Matt Kuchar and Gary Woodland both making their debuts.