The 2023 Ryder Cup: A Closer Look at Team Europe’s Players and Their Partners

The golfing world is poised for excitement this weekend as the focus shifts to New York’s iconic Bethpage Black Golf Course, hosting the much-anticipated 2023 Ryder Cup. This prestigious event, held biannually, attracts fans from around the globe, drawn to the thrilling competition and the rich history of the Ryder Cup.

This year’s 45th edition features Team Europe, hoping to defend their trophy after a stellar victory in Rome two years ago. Under the leadership of winning captain Luke Donald, the team is more cohesive than ever, with minimal changes from the previous lineup. Remarkably, Rasmus Hojgaard is the only new addition, stepping in for his brother Nicolai Hojgaard after qualifying through the ranking system.

The team is composed of notable players, including the likes of Rory McIlroy, Robert MacIntyre, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose, and Tyrrell Hatton, who all secured automatic spots. Alongside them are wildcard selections that include Shane Lowry, Jon Rahm, Sepp Straka, Viktor Hovland, Ludvig Aberg, and Matt Fitzpatrick, all of whom contributed to the memorable 16.5-11.5 victory in 2021.

Though the spotlight shines brightly on the players, their partners also play a significant role in supporting them throughout the tournament. Let’s take a closer look at the women behind these talented golfers and how they contribute to Team Europe’s spirit and success.

Emily Braisher: Supporting Tyrrell Hatton

Emily Braisher is not only the wife of golfer Tyrrell Hatton but also an active participant in the golfing world herself. Following her graduation from Nottingham Trent University in 2020, she began her blog, "Wife on Tour," sharing insights and experiences from the circuit. Braisher is no stranger to the Ryder Cup atmosphere, having celebrated Europe’s triumph in 2018 alongside Hatton in Paris.

The couple’s engagement in December 2019 led to a wedding in 2021 in Asheville, North Carolina. Although their wedding day had its hiccups—Hatton arrived late due to transportation issues and bad weather affected their post-ceremony photos—Braisher reflects on those moments fondly, calling the day "special" despite the challenges.

Kelley Cahill: The Heart Behind Jon Rahm

Kelley Cahill and Jon Rahm’s story began at a Halloween party at Arizona State University in 2012, where a simple meeting turned into a lifelong commitment. Their love blossomed, leading to a wedding in Rahm’s hometown of Bilbao in December 2019. They are parents to three children, each of whom carries the middle name "Cahill," symbolizing the family’s strong bond.

Cahill balances her role as a mother with her support for Rahm’s career, often attending tournaments to cheer him on from the sidelines. Their shared journey is a testament to the strength of their partnership and their commitment to family.

Clare Craig: More Than Just an Agent for Tommy Fleetwood

Clare Craig holds a unique position in Tommy Fleetwood’s life as both his wife and agent. Their relationship began in 2015 and quickly evolved from a professional acquaintance to a loving partnership. Despite an age gap of 23 years, their bond has flourished, leading to their marriage in 2017 and the birth of their son, Franklin, later that year.

Craig often handles the business side of Fleetwood’s career while also being a supportive partner in his personal life. Their ability to blend work and love showcases a dynamic both interesting and inspiring.

Paige Dean: A Dynamic Duo with Sepp Straka

Paige Dean, a trained accountant now working in acquisitions, met Sepp Straka during their college years at rival universities. Their relationship deepened, leading to a memorable proposal in a Birmingham wine bar in 2020 and a wedding the following year.

Dean and Straka welcomed their first child, a son named Leo, solidifying their family unit. Their story illustrates how love can blossom within the competitive atmosphere of collegiate sports.

Katherine Gaal: Matt Fitzpatrick’s Advocate and Support

Katherine Gaal hails from Pennsylvania and has a multifaceted background, holding dual degrees in finance and broadcast journalism. A former Miss New Jersey USA runner-up, she now works as a regional marketing manager while also supporting her husband, Matt Fitzpatrick, in his golfing career.

Their romance began somewhat quietly, but Gaal made her first public appearance with Fitzpatrick at the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii in early 2023. With their wedding in October of the same year quickly approaching, the couple looks forward to their future together.

Shannon Hartley: The Low-Key Support for Robert MacIntyre

Shannon Hartley’s relationship with Robert MacIntyre is notably private, with few details about their journey together made public. Nevertheless, she has been there for MacIntyre during pivotal moments, such as his debut at the Ryder Cup in Rome.

Despite the challenges of long-distance living in America while MacIntyre pursues his career, their relationship remains steady as they prioritize their connection amid the hectic golfing world.

Wendy Honner: A Family Woman Supporting Shane Lowry

Wendy Honner, once a pediatric nurse, met Shane Lowry during a night out in 2012. Their love story culminated in marriage in New York City in 2016, and they now reside in South Florida with their two daughters, Iris and Ivy.

While they have a home in South Florida, Lowry ensures that their daughters experience Irish summers, maintaining a deep connection to their roots. Their family-oriented approach highlights the importance of togetherness in the sport.

Olivia Peet: The Tennis Star in Ludvig Aberg’s Life

Olivia Peet and Ludvig Aberg share a connection forged in college athletics, where they met while Peet played tennis for Texas Tech. Though the timeline of their relationship isn’t widely known, they’ve been publicly seen together at the Ryder Cup, showcasing a genuine bond built on shared experiences.

Their relationship reflects the common thread among many of the Ryder Cup players: the supportive, often athletic backgrounds that unite them.

Kate Phillips: Building a Legacy with Justin Rose

Kate Phillips and Justin Rose have the longest-standing relationship among Team Europe’s players, having first met in 2000 when Phillips worked at PR firm IMG. Their journey led to marriage six years later and the launch of the Kate and Justin Rose Foundation in 2009, aimed at supporting impoverished children in Central Florida.

Rose honors Phillips by playing with the number 99 on his golf balls—a symbol of their love, as it combines her favorite number, 9, and doubles it for luck. The strength of their partnership is evident through their collective endeavors and family life, which includes their children.

Julie Sander Danielsen: The Enigmatic Partner of Rasmus Hojgaard

Julie Sander Danielsen’s relationship with Rasmus Hojgaard is one of the most discreet among the Ryder Cup couples. Their bond dates back to at least 2019, as evidenced by shared moments on social media. Hailing from Denmark like Hojgaard, she has been a consistent presence at his tournaments, celebrating his accomplishments quietly yet significantly.

Erica Stoll: The Resilient Partner of Rory McIlroy

Erica Stoll and Rory McIlroy’s relationship has captured public interest since they first met in 2012. Stoll, who managed volunteer operations for the PGA during the Ryder Cup, and McIlroy’s bond deepened over the years, leading to marriage in 2018 and the birth of their daughter, Poppy.

However, their relationship hasn’t been without challenges. A high-profile separation last year led to McIlroy filing for divorce, a decision he later reversed, declaring that they had reconciled and were looking forward to a fresh start together.

The Single Player: Viktor Hovland

In contrast to many of his teammates, Viktor Hovland is currently single. His light-hearted moments, including a humorous photo with his teammates’ partners at the 2023 Ryder Cup, continue to endear him to fans. Hovland’s charming personality and skill are well documented, especially following the buzz around his dating profile that circulated online.

As the 2023 Ryder Cup unfolds at Bethpage Black, the contributions of these partners and their stories add significant depth to the tournament. Their support for their loved ones serves as another layer of excitement as fans root for Team Europe in this iconic championship. With a mix of unwavering commitment and personal triumph, the Ryder Cup not only highlights the best in golf but also the loving relationships that underpin the sport.