Ryder Cup vice captain Edoardo Molinari believes Europe are in "great shape" ahead of the Ryder Cup in the United States in four months' time. (More Sports News)
Molinari was deployed in the same role under captain Luke Donald in 2023 as Europe reclaimed the trophy with a 16.5 -11.5 win over the USA in Rome.
The Italian is part of Donald's support staff once more as they seek their first Ryder Cup win away from home since the Miracle of Medinah in 2012.
Molinari, who competed in the Ryder Cup in the 2010 edition of the competition at Celtic Manor, is delighted with the performances of some of Europe's leading players.
Rory McIlroy has already won on three occasions this year, including completing his career grand slam at the Masters, while Sepp Straka, Viktor Hovland, Thomas Detry, and Ludvig Aberg have all tasted success on the PGA Tour this season.
Molinari said on the Sky Sports Golf podcast: "There's a lot of guys that have been playing well recently - even some of the non-superstars we had in Rome.
"Thomas Detry is one that hadn't won yet on the PGA Tour, and he managed to clinch his first win at Phoenix.
"There's just so many guys that have been playing well, and hopefully we can keep that momentum going until September."
Bethpage Black is likely to play host to a hostile atmosphere for the European team, but Molinari is confident the players can deal with the environment despite their recent struggles on US soil in the competition.
"I think you just control what you can control," Molinari said.
"You cannot control the crowds, but you can control how you behave and how you react to the crowds.
"I think we'll be prepared, we'll be ready for it. I know it will be loud and very difficult, but sometimes in the difficulty lies opportunity as well.
"I'm sure some players will love it, and hopefully they'll be able to perform at their best.
