Rory McIlroy Says America Is “Still The Best Country In The World” Ahead Of Ryder Cup… Where He’ll Play For Team Europe

Is Rory McIlroy pulling out the ol’ “reverse jinx” trick ahead of the 2025 Ryder Cup?

We are now just a day away from watching some of the world’s best golfers put on for their country in a three-day, team match play extravaganza. The contest pits the 12 best golfers from the United States against Europe’s 12 top-tier golfers, and one of Europe’s big stars is Rory McIlroy.

Though the United States and Europe will be playing against one another, and there’s bound to be a lot of emotion and national pride involved throughout the weekend (the tournament runs September 26 – September 28), Rory McIlroy took time out of his Ryder Cup media availability to praise the United States of America.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Rory relocated to Jupiter, Florida around 2008, when he earned status on the PGA Tour. In fact, he and the 11 other golfers for Team Europe all live full-time in America… but still represent the country that they hail from in the tournament.

Rory was asked what America meant to him, and if his thoughts on the country have changed in recent years. The five-time major champion didn’t shy away from the question, and gave some insight as to why he believes the United States of America is still the best country on the planet:

“Everyone wanted to make it in America. It’s the land of opportunity. And I still believe it’s the best country in the world, and if you come here and work hard and dedicate yourself, you can be or do whatever you want.”

Would have been a lot easier to root against him this weekend if he didn’t say that.

Rory went on to add that he takes pride that he and his family live in America, and that he’s always been inspired by how success and hard work are rewarded in the United States:

“I am unbelievably grateful and lucky that I got to come to America early on. I think success is celebrated here. I think there’s a wonderful sense of work ethic. And yeah, I live here.

My wife is American. My daughter is American. I have a lot of affinity towards this country, and I think everyone that lives here should have that same affinity because it is, it’s a wonderful… it is a wonderful place.”

@golf_comRory McIlroy still believes America is the greatest country in the world.

♬ original sound – GOLF DOT COM

Now are those some very nice words to say about the United States of America? Yes, yes they are. But is the timing a little suspicious? Possibly. I believe Rory McIlroy when he says all those things. However, it certainly seems like it could be a play to soften up the hostile, U.S.A. crowd that he’ll be playing in front of at Bethpage Black in New York this weekend.

On behalf of the United States, thanks for the kind words Rory. But let’s be clear… at least for the next three days, he’s a EUROPEAN. And if you call yourself a red-blooded American, he’s the enemy during the Ryder Cup. No compliment will change my mind, Mr. McIlroy.

USA! USA! USA!