Why Padraig Harrington's Ryder Cup return means more than most appointments

Padraig Harrington has been named as one of Luke Donald's vice-captains for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Moor.

Harrington's selection as vice captain is vindicated by his experience of winning the tournament several times previously, and the fact that the competition is returning to Ireland for the first time since 2006.

In total, the veteran has played in 25 matches across six Ryder Cups, winning 10½ points for Team Europe, while he also boasts 44 tournament victories across a glittering career.

Harrington joins the Molinari brothers, Edoardo and Francesco, in Donald’s backroom team for next year’s contest as Team Europe seek a third consecutive Ryder Cup victory.

In 2025, Europe beat Team USA at Bethpage Black in New York, and the 54-year-old never envisaged returning to the competition.

“Luke and I arranged to meet up at The Open and chatted about it, and we felt we could strike up a good team again,” said Harrington.

“Obviously, he was my vice-captain [in 2021], and we have worked together as vice-captains in the past. And certainly, I feel I’ve something to give.

“Luke has a very strong team around him already, and he felt that we would work well together.

“It’s something I didn’t expect. I honestly didn’t think I’d ever wear the European Ryder Cup logo again. So I’m very happy to be part of it.

“The Ryder Cup has been a special part of my life. Representing Europe has always been one of the highlights of my golfing career, and to be able to do it again in this situation, especially in Ireland, is special.

The three-time major winner has played in six Ryder Cups for Team Europe and was a vice-captain on three occasions before captaining the side for the unsuccessful 2021 edition at Whistling Straits.

Harrington was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2023, and at the time, was the third Irishman to receive the honour after Joe Carr and Christy O'Connor Snr.

That inclusion was largely down to his three major wins, claiming victory twice at The Open in 2007 and 2008, as well as winning the PGA Championship in 2008.

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However, winning the Ryder Cup on four occasions also played its part, and ahead of his return next year, it's clear to see why his appointment is special.

Luke Donald explains Padraig Harrington Ryder Cup decision

Donald can make history in Adare by becoming the first captain to win three in a row, and he's already explained the reason why Harrington was selected.

"Padraig is someone I thought about quite a lot, especially with it being in Adare,” Donald said. “He has a special relationship with JP [McManus] and a connection to the fans, which I think is important.

“I’ve been around Pádraig in many Ryder Cup team rooms, as a player, as a vice-captain to his captaincy, and he’s been a vice-captain before in the past as well.

“So he brings a wealth of experience, and I do love the fact that there’s a connection. He understands the Irish crowds and all that goes with having a Ryder Cup in Ireland. I think it’s going to be very special for him."