When the Ryder Cup circus rolls into Bethpage Black in 2025, Team Europe will bring more than just clubs and composure; they’ll bring character, intensity, and personalities that sometimes clash with convention. That was on display in one of Tommy Fleetwood’s more candid presser moments, when he was asked: “Who’s the noisiest guy on your team?” Fleetwood paused, smiled, and didn’t hesitate: “Noisiest? Well, there’s a few of them. I’d probably give Rory that mantelpiece.” In a single line, he both teased and acknowledged Rory McIlroy’s status as a locomotive in the room, someone whose presence is bound to be heard.

That lighthearted barb into team dynamics, however, was balanced by genuine admiration. In the same press conference, Tommy Fleetwood spoke of Rory McIlroy in terms more often reserved for legends: “He’s one of if not the greatest players of our generation.” He called playing alongside Rory “a privilege,” and praised the energy Rory brings not just to his pairing, but to the whole Ryder Cup. That duality: chiding him for noise, and celebrating him for his spirit, offers insight into how Fleetwood views the star: not as a liability, but as an asset that must be respected, managed, and supported.

That led to deeper questions of partnership, raised soon after: “You’ve got a great record in this event … what makes a great partnership? And if you’re playing with Rory this week, given his frequent status as public target No. 1, are you okay with dealing with that?” Fleetwood’s answer was measured but firm. He emphasized that the 21st-century pairing often benefits from statistical insight, compatibility in driving, putting, and hole patterns. But he insisted the intangible matters too: emotional connection, closeness, trust. “In foursomes … you need to have some kind of emotional connection … But that has never been anything we needed to worry about in Team Europe.”

He then circled back to McIlroy: “Whatever energy he decides to bring, I’ll be there to support him and be a good partner.” In other words, he’s not intimidated by the heat that follows Rory. Indeed, he seems to welcome it. And why shouldn’t he? McIlroy is a generational figure, someone whose successes, reactions, and even controversies all attract spotlight and scrutiny. That he draws attention in galleries, in media, and in rival camps is part and parcel of his role. What distinguishes a teammate, Fleetwood subtly implied, is whether you resist or whether you lean in with him.

As of 2025, McIlroy’s Ryder Cup record stands at 16–13–4. Putting this into a broader context: McIlroy is among Europe’s all-time Ryder Cup pillars. In his previous appearances, he has shouldered pressure, produced clutch moments, and endured hostility from partisan crowds. He’s also been at the center of on-course drama, most famously, the heated confrontation with Patrick Cantlay‘s caddie Joe LaCava in 2023 that spilled into a parking lot. That episode, often cited as one of Ryder Cup’s more combustible moments, speaks to how Rory McIlroy’s emotional edge has both inspired his team and rattled opponents.

Fleetwood’s own Ryder Cup résumé underscores why his praise of McIlroy carries weight. Overall, he holds a 7-3-2 record (Four-balls 2-2-1, Foursomes 4-0-0, Singles 1-1-1), a testament to consistency across formats. His arrival was spectacular: in 2018 at Le Golf National, he and Francesco Molinari became the first European pairing to win all four of their matches, even if Fleetwood fell to Tony Finau in singles.

At Marco Simone in 2023, Fleetwood partnered Rory McIlroy in both foursomes sessions for 2&1 victories over Xander Schauffele/Patrick Cantlay and Justin Thomas/Jordan Spieth, lost a Saturday four-ball with Nicolai Højgaard, then sealed Europe’s triumph by defeating Rickie Fowler 3&1 for his first full singles point. Those numbers show a player who thrives in pressure situations and explain why he speaks about teaming with McIlroy from a position of proven success.

At the end of the day, that mantlepiece for ‘noisiest’ is symbolic. It reflects the insider’s view: Rory isn’t quiet, he isn’t hidden, and he isn’t to be ignored. Team Europe, by virtue of its culture, encourages these personalities, but it ties them together through camaraderie, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Fleetwood’s gentle ribbing is also a declaration: he respects what Rory brings, and he’s not afraid of it.

Rory McIlroy’s ‘noisy’ presence

Rory McIlroy’s reputation as one of the most energetic members of Team Europe is well-founded, both on and off the course. His dynamic presence is particularly evident in formats like the foursomes and four-balls, where McIlroy’s performance can significantly influence the team’s momentum. In the foursomes format, McIlroy boasts a commendable record of 7 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, reflecting a 57.7% win rate. Conversely, his four-ball record stands at 5 wins, 6 losses, and 2 draws, resulting in just a 46.2% win rate. This disparity underscores his effectiveness in the foursomes format, where strategic collaboration and emotional energy are paramount.

McIlroy’s vibrant energy catalyzes Team Europe’s morale. His enthusiasm and commitment often uplift his teammates, fostering a cohesive and resilient team environment. This psychological boost is crucial, especially in high-pressure situations characteristic of the Ryder Cup. The intensity McIlroy brings to the course can also serve as a psychological tool against opponents. His visible passion and competitiveness may disrupt the focus of rival players, potentially leading to mistakes or shifts in momentum. This strategic advantage is particularly effective in matchplay formats, where mental fortitude is as crucial as technical skill.

Anticipating the challenges posed by the enthusiastic home crowd at Bethpage Black, McIlroy and his European teammates have employed innovative strategies to prepare. Notably, they have utilized virtual reality (VR) headsets to simulate the sights and sounds of a raucous crowd, allowing players to acclimate to the anticipated atmosphere. McIlroy emphasized the importance of this preparation, stating, “It is just to simulate the sights and sounds and noise… that’s the stuff that we are going to have to deal with.”

While McIlroy’s energy is a defining characteristic, it’s essential to consider the dynamics within Team Europe. Teammates like Tommy Fleetwood offer a more composed and strategic approach, balancing McIlroy’s intensity. This blend of personalities contributes to a well-rounded team capable of adapting to various challenges and opponents.