Nick Faldo has a European favorite to beat the US in Rome –

Ryder Cup legend and six-time title winner Nick Faldo gives the Europeans the edge over Team USA in Rome this week, predicting the hosts will reclaim the trophy.

Faldo represented Europe a record 11 times in the Ryder Cup, winning 25 points, while also captaining the team in 2008, albeit in a losing cause at Valhalla.

The USA had a record 19-9 win at Whistling Straights two years ago, but Faldo believes Europe can emerge victorious again.

• Ryder Cup on Sky Sports: Full TV times | Expect European team confrontations
• Watch the Ryder Cup and more with Now | The latest Sky Sports Golf podcast
• Ryder Cup Player Profiles: Team Europe | Team USA

Faldo said in an exclusive interview with the “I tend to Europe” channel. Sky Sports Golf Podcast.

“For either team, the ‘big four’ have to carry the heavy load. And look at the big three we have now – Rory” [McIlroy]John [Rahm] And Victor [Hovland] – they are great.

“You need a fourth person, whoever it is this week, Luke [Donald] Will look for that. He will need four really strong players, who will probably have to play five games.

“If you’re lucky and get an apprentice [do well] “And the Americans don’t really know these two guys (Nikolai Hougaard and Ludwig Aberg) – and that is very useful and powerful.”

Faldo also questioned some of USA captain Zach Johnson’s six picks – Brooks Koepka, Jordan Spieth and Collin Morikawa. Sam Burns, Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas – raise concerns about their appearances.

“Those six picks, if they’re playing great, they’re great,” he said. “But all of them — even Brooks [Koepka] – Running hot and a bit cold.

“Justin Thomas, has he got it? Rickie Fowler, he’s certainly found his game, but he hasn’t spent a lot of time at the deep end.

“I’ve gone to Ryder Cups when you haven’t quite got your game figured out and it’s scary. There’s no structure or way to make it easier for you.

“If your game is a little off, that doesn’t protect you. If things go wrong in the first half dozen holes, it probably means you’re going to have a rough week.”

“I can’t wait. This week is going to be epic, the whole atmosphere,” Faldo added [of a Ryder Cup]”The density, it’s special.”

Also in the podcast, Faldo reflects on his rich Ryder Cup history and, specifically, his relationship with the late, great Seve Ballesteros.

He also discusses the difference between the modern game and his time at the top, as well as the unique challenges the Marco Simone Golf Course will present to players at this week’s Ryder Cup.

Download and listen to the latest Sky Sports Golf Podcasts and don’t forget to subscribe via Spotify, Spreaker, or Apple Podcasts! If you would like to connect with the podcast, you can email us at [email protected].

Live coverage of the opening day of the Ryder Cup starts on Friday from 6am on Sky Sports Golf. There’s also live content every day in the lead up to the tournament. Stream the PGA Tour, DP Tour, Ryder Cup and more now.

(c) Sky Sports 2023: Ryder Cup: Nick Faldo has European favorite to beat USA in Rome