‘I don’t think about losing’: Donald gets Jordan backing for Ryder Cup

Europe's captain Luke Donald exudes confidence before the renewal in Rome ... with one US sporting icon's support

This feels like an early win for Europe. Michael Jordan, a long-time cheerleader for the US in Ryder Cups, believes Luke Donald's team will prevail at Marco Simone next Sunday. Donald, a neighbour of Jordan, had dinner with the NBA icon in recent weeks. He tipped the Europeans to win," Donald says. Take whatever you want out of that one.

He is a good friend. He would be very supportive of me having a great experience. I think ultimately he wants the US to win." Yet Jordan's faith is in Europe.