Moments After Eclipsing Rory McIlroy, 23-Year-Old Ryder Cup Rookie Dishes on Their Startling Encounter: ‘Almost Pinched Myself’

As the Ryder Cup is nearing, the excitement amongst the golfing community and players is abuzz. In just a few weeks, Europe and the USA will face off in Rome, each competing for their pride. The American team aims to uphold their Ryder Cup title, while Europe seeks redemption after their loss at Whistling Straits in 2021.

This 26-year-old rising star is a part of this prestigious Ryder Cup. Currently, he is playing at the DP World’s BMW PGA Championship which is up and running with a $9,000,000 prize purse at the renowned Wentworth Club’s West Course in Surrey. After the first round, during an interview, he opened up about his journey as a rookie in the Ryder Cup.

Rising star’s reflection on the grand stage

Emerging as a bright talent on the DP World Tour, rising star Ludvig Aberg made headlines with his impressive debut win in Switzerland at the 2023 Omega European Masters. His commanding two-stroke victory didn’t go unnoticed, earning the admiration of the European team’s skipper. Luke Donald has selected Aberg as one of his captain’s picks for the Ryder Cup team.

When asked about his experience playing with players like Rory McIlroy and Viktor Hovland on the grand stage, he remarked, “It was great. A little bit more people than I’m used to following me around. It was really fun playing with those two guys. Obviously, the level of golf that they can do is pretty amazing and for me to watch that is pretty cool.” 

During the opening round on Thursday, Aberg outshined both the golf stars. Scoring a 4-under 68 with six birdies in the back nine, Aberg moved ahead in the DP World Tour’s top event. He mentioned, “I was kind of walking around and then almost pinched myself in the arm on the fairways but really enjoyed it, and proud of the way I handled it today.”

When enquired about the feels of playing at such settings and the grandeur of the event, he responded, “Yeah, I think so. I think this is what I’ve been wanting to do for such a long time, and for me to actually be here, to actually play in these events that I’ve watched for such a long time is pretty cool.”

All eyes are on Rome’s Marco Simone for the Ryder Cup

The young Swedish golfer, Aberg, has made a mark in the golf world. Despite only turning professional this June, his selection by Donald for the Ryder Cup has taken many by surprise. Remarkably, Aberg stands out as the first golfer to earn a spot on a Ryder Cup team without participating in a major.

Read More: Moments After Triumphing Over Ryder Cup Member Matt Fitzpatrick, Ludvig Aberg Stays Optimistic Over His Patriotic Chances

As the golf world wonders if Aberg can outshine his more experienced peers, all eyes will be on Rome’s Marco Simone Golf and Country Club later this month. Can Aberg make his chance count with a skillful display in his debut Ryder Cup appearance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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