Ryder Cup: Harrington 'thrilled'

(ANSA) - Rome, January 22 - Padraig Harrington will officially be the European captain for the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in Wisconsin on September 25-27 next year.
    The three-time major winner said he was "thrilled" at getting such an important role.
    He said that he felt the timing "for this tremendous honor" was right, stressing that he will strive to give his very best and "get the best out" of the team. The 47-year-old Dublin native has served as vice-captain at the last three Ryder Cups and taken part in the biennial contest against the US six times as a player.
    He replaces Denmark's Thomas Bjorn, who contributed to Europe's triumph in Paris last September.
    His career boasts 24 wins, including three majors.
    He won the Open Championship in 2007 and 2008 and feels ready for his new role, he said.
    Harrington noted that the challenge will not be easy - though it will certainly be a beautiful and captivating mission, he said.
    In Whistling Straits, Wisconsin, Harrington will have to defend the title won in Paris in part thanks to Italian golfer Francesco Molinari.
    A veteran of the contest, Harrington appeared six times as a player - winning four titles and losing two.
    Sponsored by Justin Rose, Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia, he beat Luke Donald in the contest for the position.