Did Luke Donald just rule Sergio Garcia out of the Ryder Cup team?

Luke Donald has praised Sergio Garcia’s Ryder Cup legacy but admitted the Spaniard’s current form may not be strong enough to justify a captain’s pick for Bethpage.

As the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage approaches, the competition for places on Team Europe is intensifying, especially as the qualification period for Team USA is now complete. Only the top six players on the European points list are guaranteed selection, while the remainder of the team will rely on captain Luke Donald’s discretion through his picks. With limited opportunities available, the scrutiny on form has never been greater.

Inevitably, attention has turned to Sergio Garcia, one of the most iconic figures in Ryder Cup history. Garcia has built a reputation as an integral part the European side over the years, boasting the highest points total in the competition’s history. Yet, despite his extraordinary record, questions remain about whether he can play a role at Bethpage.

Donald was asked about Garcia’s prospects during his press conference at the Betfred British Masters.

“Yeah, I’ve had many conversations with Sergio. We’ve talked a couple times. Sergio’s form since Augusta, he said it at the PGA, even if he gave me a pick, I probably wouldn’t take it. I’m not playing well enough.”

The comment reflects not only Garcia’s self-awareness but also Donald’s determination to prioritise current performance over past glories. The captain did acknowledge that Garcia’s results had “improved a little bit,” but he was clear in his message, “what he brings in terms of his Ryder Cup pedigree is one thing, but his form would need to show a little bit more improvement, especially this following week.”

Donald’s comments strongly suggest that while Garcia’s legacy within the Ryder Cup is secure, his immediate future in the team is far less certain, and highlight the balance he must strike between honoring past contributions and ensuring Europe takes the most competitive side possible to New York State next month.

So, has Luke Donald ruled Garcia out of the Ryder Cup? Not exactly. But without a marked improvement in form, even a player of Garcia’s stature may find himself on the outside looking in when Europe seeks to defend its crown at Bethpage.

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