Danny Willett says he is ready to throw himself wholeheartedly into this week’s Ryder Cup at Hazeltine.
The 28-year-old will be one of six rookies teeing it up for the European team in Minnesota but will certainly not be taken lightly by the Americans, having shown just how good he can be under pressure when winning the Masters in April.
Ryder Cup golf is a different kettle of fish, however, with the home crowd likely to create a hugely partisan atmosphere, especially with Team USA not having won the biennial event since 2008.
It means team spirit could be huge for the Europeans and, in captain Darren Clarke and the experienced Lee Westwood, they have the perfect men on hand to help generate a positive mood within the camp.
Willett, who is 13.00 to be Europe’s top points scorer, says he has spoken to both in the build-up to the event and, with golf being such an individual sport, is relishing the chance of being in a team environment.
The Yorkshireman admits the nerves are starting to settle in but believes having experience around will only help him and his fellow rookies, as he looks to throw himself into the collective effort of trying to win the cup.
“I want to immerse myself in the team environment,” says Willett. “I’m good friends with Darren and Lee so I’ve been able to speak quite openly with those guys.
“There’s no two better people to talk to about the Ryder Cup than those two. I’ve tried to embrace the whole build-up and I’m anxious to get there now.”
USA are currently the 1.53 favourites to win the event, with the tie 12.00 and holders Europe 2.80.
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