Luke Donald and Zach Johnson – ©Getty Images

The two captains swing from a venue celebrating the arrival of the Ryder Cup, located in the Tempio di Venere Roma (Temple of Venus and Rome), in the shadow of the world-famous Colosseum.

Europe captain Donald and USA captain Johnson are in Rome to mark 12 months until Italy host their first Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, September 26-October 1, 2023.

The couple took the famous Ryder Cup trophy to the heart of Rome at the Colosseum, one of the city's most historic sites which attracts millions of tourists each year.

Built in the 1st century AD, the stone amphitheater was a gathering place during the Roman Empire, with a capacity of around 50 people.

Captain Donald said: “The Colosseum is an icon of Rome, built in 80 AD, I read about it. It is still the largest amphitheater ever built. It's amazing that they could do such amazing things so many years ago. »

“So having that as a backdrop was a great showcase for Italy and a great showcase for Rome. »

Captain Johnson said: “It was an amazing morning and sharing it with Luke, Diane and my wife was special. I mean, it's almost surreal. The backdrop of the Colosseum, the Temple of Venus, is something exceptional, you pinch yourself to see if you are not dreaming. It was very spectacular, and I appreciate this opportunity, so thank you. »

The visit of the Ryder Cup Captains to the Colosseum and the Temple of Venus in Rome marked the second day of celebrations for the coming Year, and the two men also held their first joint press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Luke Donald and Zach Johnson – ©Getty Images

Yesterday, Donald and Johnson were joined by 12 members of the Federazione Italiana Golf (FIG) elite Under-18 national team - six boys and six girls aged 15-18 - and four members of the squad handicapped elite for a four-hole match of the captains challenge on Marco Simone's first, 16th, 17th and 18th holes.

About 300 local schoolchildren attended the event, which ended in a draw, with the two teams sharing the trophy.

On Monday evening, the two captains joined the 200 guests of the official gala dinner which took place in the spectacular Palazzo Colonna.

Marco Simone will host the 2023 Ryder Cup from September 26 to October 1, 2023, when Europe will try to reclaim the cup after losing at Whistling Straits last year.

Fans can apply for tickets to attend the event at the Marco Simone, including practice days, the Junior Ryder Cup and all three match days, via the Ryder Cup ballot which closes October 16.

Visit www.rydercup.com for more information and to participate in the vote.

To read our last article on the Ryder Cup:

Ryder Cup: Captains meet the Pope at the Vatican