Olazabal named European Ryder Cup vice-captain

Jose Maria Olazabal will play in the New York Ryder Cup this year as Europe’s third vice-captain.

Olazabal, who led Team Europe to their most recent victory on American soil in 2012, returns to his role in 2023 when they defeated the United States 161-112 to reclaim the Ryder Cup in Rome.

The 59-year-old Spaniard joins Dane Thomas Bjorn and Edoardo Molinari from Italy for the 2025 event at Bethpage Black, where they will join English captain Luke Donald’s backroom team.

Olazabal, who won seven Ryder Cups between 1987 and 2006, said, “It is wonderful news.”

Being in New York, it’s not going to be easy when Luke approached me and inquired about the possibility of becoming a vice-captain once more.

However, I hold the Ryder Cup very dearly in my heart. I chose to accept this because I have fond memories of it.

“I think Luke did a fantastic job in Rome, and I’m confident that he will do the same.”

He handled players, caddies, and families in “absolutely every detail.” It was wonderful to see some of the ideas he had and the images of former champions.

Joe added, “Jose is synonymous with European golf, the Ryder Cup, and everything it represents,” adding 47. Therefore, it’s very encouraging for us to have him back on my backroom team.