A performance coach who worked within the Team Europe camp has given an exclusive insight into Rory McIlroy's conduct behind the scenes at the Ryder Cup, revealing the star's leadership qualities emerged a decade ago.
An Old Head on Young Shoulders
Performance coach Chris Henry, who was part of the European set-up at the 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine, has spoken about what he witnessed from a then 26-year-old McIlroy. Despite Team USA winning the contest 17-11, Henry was profoundly impressed by the Northern Irishman's maturity and influence.
Henry, who has also worked with golfer Lee Westwood and top snooker players, was present in the team meetings. He described listening to McIlroy as "fascinating," noting the four-time major winner's ability to motivate and encourage his teammates with confident, positive rhetoric.
Stepping Up for Captain Clarke
Henry confirmed that McIlroy actively took on a leadership role during the campaign, partly driven by a desire to support fellow Northern Irishman and captain, Darren Clarke. "A couple of times in meetings, Rory would stand up and speak with some motivational stuff," Henry told Mirror Sport.
McIlroy's message centred on belief and specific actions needed for victory. Henry recalled the golfer's words: "He said if we do these certain things, we can win, if we believe in ourselves…" The coach praised McIlroy as being "very encouraging, very confident, very positive" and noted he was "an old head on young shoulders."
A 'Nailed On' Future Captain
Looking at McIlroy's phenomenal 2025 season—which included completing the career Grand Slam by winning the Masters, claiming the Players Championship and the Race to Dubai title, and helping Europe retain the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black—Henry sees an inevitable future role.
He believes it is "nailed on" that McIlroy will one day captain Team Europe. "He'll make a phenomenal Ryder Cup captain as well," Henry stated, citing the golfer's credibility with players and his natural skill in motivating people. "It was wonderful to watch," he added.
This revelation comes as McIlroy enjoys deserved downtime after being crowned the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year, with fans and pundits now looking ahead to his 2026 campaign and his eventual transition into a leadership role in the sport's greatest team event.
