Luke Donald gives away special Ryder Cup memento to former university
The former world number one said he "didn't really have room" for another one at his house.
European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald has donated the buggy he used to get around Bethpage Black last September to his former university.
The vehicle now has a permanent home in the reception area of Northwestern's Gleacher Golf Center, where it is being displayed as a reminder of Donald's Ryder Cup career and his connection to the university.
Former world number one Donald was a Wildcat from 1997 to 2001.
Donald's first captain's buggy was sent to his home in Florida after he guided Europe to victory at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome in 2023.
That vehicle was signed by members of the victorious European team.
After Europe's 15-13 triumph in New York, Donald had another captain's buggy to find a home for.
"I didn't really have room for another one at my house, so I wondered where else in the US would make most sense," said Donald.
Donald said his time at the university played an important role in preparing him for a career in professional golf.
"It really created a great environment for me to improve and get ready to be a professional golfer," he added.
"Pat Goss, who was my coach there and for many years after, was a great inspiration.
"They have an amazing indoor facility, so I thought what a good opportunity to give back to Northwestern and have the buggy on display there."
David Inglis, Northwestern’s men’s golf coach, said the donation was another example of Donald maintaining a strong connection with his former university.
"It's an incredible feature for our Gleacher Golf Center and yet another example of Luke giving back," said Inglis.
"It takes pride of place in the reception and is the first thing you see when you come in.
"It's a real talking point – everyone who comes in wants to sit in it and have their photo taken.
"Luke is certainly our most decorated alumnus and to have this unique, one-off memento here is very motivational and special for anyone who walks past it."
The 2027 Ryder Cup will be contested at Adare Manor in Ireland from 17-19 September.
Donald will attempt to become the first captain to win three Ryder Cups in a row.
He won the competition four times as a player and twice served as a vice-captain.
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