Will the US catch the birdie at the Ryder Cup? 

At last the Ryder Cup is here – well, in Rome – and with it Europe’s biennial chance to stick it to the Americans in a sport that matters in a format that we can all relate to. Even if you regard golfers as extremely well-off people largely determined to make themselves better off, the frenzied emotions and belting patriotism of the Ryder Cup should be enough to challenge even the most surly of gloomsters. And while Americans have to seek solace and comfort in the company of other Americans, it takes something special and inspiring when an Irishman can join forces with a Swede and be cheered on by an Austrian and a Dane.

Our American chums haven’t won away from home this century, which gives them a huge incentive. After all, they thrashed Europe last time out, by a record 19-9 at Whistling Straits. They are favourites here, and on paper they look unbeatable. But… There is huge excitement around captain Luke Donald’s pick of the brilliant 23-year-old Swede Ludvig Aberg, who has been a pro for only a little over three months. He has never played in a Major, but won the European Masters earlier this month with a phenomenal finish. An exceptional driver, he is also blessed with a stable temperament.

It should be a phenomenal match with Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland and Matt Fitzpatrick leading the way for Europe, while Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay head up the US attack. If it comes down to the single, then I expect a US win, but if Europe can get a big enough lead in the Friday foursomes and four-balls, who knows.

At least it won’t be a mismatch, unlike some of the games in this year’s otherwise stupendous Rugby World Cup.