Luke Donald in tears as Europe’s emotional captain leads team to Ryder Cup glory

Luke Donald fought back tears as he spoke to reporters after leading Europe to glory in the Ryder Cup.

Tensions were high heading into the final day after Rory McIlroy's foul-mouthed bust-up with Patrick Cantlay’s, but Europe held their nerve to quash USA's fightback and seal a 16.5 to 11.5 victory. Speaking to Sky Sports amid euphoric scenes at the Marco Simone Golf Club, Donald battled a quivering voice as he described what it meant to be crowned champions.

"I am pretty emotional," he said as he wiped away a tear. "It's been a long process. It's been an amazing journey. I enjoyed this one.

READ MORE: Europe win 2023 Ryder Cup despite brave USA fight back and celebrate in Italy

READ MORE: Rory McIlroy on brink of tears and chokes up at Ryder Cup after caddie bust-up

"It was stressful. USA put up a fight today, they really did. Hats off to them, unbelievable. But [I'm] so proud of my 12 guys. We formed a bond from day one. They gave me everything and they trusted me, and they delivered for me."

When asked what his state of mind was like as the singles were unfolding, the 45-year-old insisted the flying start Europe made to the day calmed everyone's nerves. "We started off great. our guys got off to a great start," he said.

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"It was what we needed, we wanted some blue on the board early. A few matches changed to red and you just kept looking at the board, kept looking at the board and thinking where are going to find 14.5 points. We always had some guys at the back that looked good."

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Leading 10.5 to 5.5 heading into the singles, Europe needed just four more points to reclaim the trophy. Rory McIlroy was one of Europe’s final-day heroes, beating Sam Burns 3&1. At 14-10, and with the remaining matches on the course all tight, nerves were beginning to be frayed among the European fans. But Tommy Fleetwood going two up against Rickie Fowler on the 16th meant Europe couldn't be caught.

During the celebrations as Europe lifted the trophy, the team made their feelings clear regarding Donald's future. A chant of "two more years" was belted out by all the players while Donald held the trophy, to which he smiled.

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