Bob MacIntyre says helping Europe win the Ryder Cup was “everything” – and that he can’t wait to return to Oban to celebrate.
The Glencruitten champ’s 2&1 win against US Open champion Wyndham Clark contributed to a 16½-11½ victory against the United States as he made a stunning debut and silenced those who labeled him a weak link in the European team.
It may have been the 27-year-old’s first Ryder Cup, but on the strength of character and quality of play over the last three days, it won’t be his last.
He was quick to thank family and friends who travelled with him for their unstinting support – as well as praising his hometown for its backing.
Speaking after emotional scenes as his team-mates lifted the coveted trophy, Bob said: “I knew the buzz was going to be incredible but the main thing was to win the Ryder Cup back and that’s what we did.
“It’s everything. It means so much to my family and friends as well. There was a big crowd from home that came over and I’m just glad we could get it done.
“It was nervy. I was doing well early and made a little mistake coming in there. I just hung in and accepted what was going to be was going to be and I managed to nick a few hole on the back nine. I’m delighted.”
Bob shared this photo of him, main image, with the cup on his X account (formerly Twitter) with the humble caption, ‘Just a wee lad from Oban’.
He has enjoyed some huge days on his journey into the world’s top 50 golfers, but admits that the last three have been extra special. And that rise looks set to continue as he rides the crest of a Ryder Cup wave into 2024.
He added: “I’m a realist, I don’t know if this is going to be my first and last Ryder Cup, or if it’s going to be my first of many. I just take every day as it comes and we’ll work hard and hopefully get back here.”
Oban is expected to roll out the red carpet for the return of the local hero. His home club of Glencruitten shared photos and videos on its social media channels showing a packed clubhouse all weekend as members roared Bob during his two wins and halved match.
On when he plans to return to Oban to join the party, Bob said on Sunday: “I’ll be there tomorrow night.”