McIlroy praised Europe's performance at the Ryder Cup, emphasizing their skill and resilience, and voiced disappointment over negative fan behavior from American spectators, urging recognition of Europe's success.

McIlroy highlighted the importance of focusing on the team's excellence and expressed pride in contributing to Europe's first away Ryder Cup win since 2012.

There is speculation that Luke Donald might return as European captain for 2027, potentially making him the first three-time captain since Tony Jacklin in the 1980s.

Rory McIlroy, now 36, has participated in the last eight Ryder Cups and aims to be part of the team in Ireland in 2027, but he is shifting his focus towards a future leadership role rather than playing.

He has expressed a desire to make his golf schedule more international, planning to compete in countries like India, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Australia, and also shared a personal interest in attending a cricket match in India.

McIlroy, a 2025 career Grand Slam winner, played a significant role in Europe's Ryder Cup victory in September 2025, marking his eighth appearance and sixth win.

McIlroy admires past captains such as Paul McGinley and Luke Donald, and he has a strong aspiration to lead the European team as captain in the future.

Luke Donald, the current European Ryder Cup captain, has led Europe to consecutive victories in 2023 and 2025, earning high praise from McIlroy for his leadership, though he has not yet committed to a third captaincy.

McIlroy has previously dismissed the idea of being a playing captain, citing the practical difficulties of balancing both roles, noting that the last playing captain was Arnold Palmer in 1963.

The 2027 Ryder Cup in Ireland aims for Europe to secure a third consecutive win, matching their longest streak.

He reflected on Europe's narrow 15-13 victory over the US and expressed concern that negative fan conduct might overshadow the team's achievement.

McIlroy, currently ranked world No. 2 and the Masters champion, continues to focus on contributing as a player and aims to surpass Sergio Garcia as the highest Ryder Cup points scorer.

Captains are usually announced in the first half of the year after the Ryder Cup, giving Donald time to decide on his role for 2027.

He emphasizes his current focus on playing and hopes to earn enough points to be recognized as the greatest Ryder Cup player of all time.

McIlroy, a cricket enthusiast, expressed disappointment at missing the chance to attend a cricket match in India, highlighting his passion for the sport and interest in engaging with local culture.