(Reuters) – Henrik Stenson was named Europe’s captain for next year’s Ryder Cup on Tuesday, becoming the first Swede to hold the position in the competition’s history.
Stenson, the 2016 British Open champion, helped Europe to victory in three of his five Ryder Cup appearances as a player, including the last home tournament at Le Golf National in 2018.
The 45-year-old Stenson was vice-captain to Padraig Harrington at Whistling Straits last year and will be tasked with regaining the trophy following Europe’s record 19-9 defeat in Wisconsin.
“I am absolutely thrilled and delighted to be the European Ryder Cup captain – it is a huge honour,” Stenson said. “I got goosebumps every time I pulled on a European shirt as a player and that will be magnified in the role of captain.
“While it is great for me personally, it is also great for my country and all the players from Sweden who have played for Europe with such distinction since Joakim Haeggman became the first in 1993.
“I will do everything in my power and leave no stone unturned in the quest to get the Ryder Cup back in European hands.”
Europe have not lost a Ryder Cup on home soil since a 15-13 defeat at The Belfry in 1993.
The Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome, Italy will host the next edition of the biennial event from Sept. 25-Oct. 1, 2023.
Twice major winner Zach Johnson was confirmed as the United States’ captain last month, with his predecessor Steve Sticker as vice-captain.
(Reporting by Hritika Sharma in Bengaluru; Editing by Ken Ferris)
