Rory McIlroy sends USA Ryder Cup warning after ‘little s***’ shoots 61 to beat Fitzpatrick
Rory McIlroy has backed Viktor Hovland to shine at next month’s Ryder Cup against the USA after the Norwegian produced the round of his life to win the BMW Championship on Sunday. The World No 5 did not appear to be in contention at the start of the final day but produced a course record 61 to leapfrog Matt Fitzpatrick and Scottie Sheffler to clinch an astonishing victory.
McIlroy, who finished fourth on 12 under par, was paired with Hovland for the final day and was gushing with praise for his Ryder Cup teammate after a flawless round that included 10 birdies, seven of which were on the back nine.
Speaking to reporters about Hovland after his final round at Olympia Fields, McIlroy said: “He just keeps his foot on the pedal — just isn’t scared.
“Just keeps going forward, keeps going at it. The things that people don’t realise, you get into that position, the second shot on 17, to pitch it where he pitched it right by the pin… Viktor just keeps his foot on the gas.”
Hovland’s aggressive approach paid off massively on Sunday and McIlroy believes that is that style of approach that can serve Europe well when they take on the USA at the Ryder Cup in Rome on September 29.
The Northern Irishman added: “Look, he’s had some great wins already this year. Had a great chance at the PGA Championship. He’s a world-class player, and looking forward to him being on my team for the Ryder Cup in a few weeks time.”
