FARMINGDALE, New York :As the most experienced player at this year's Ryder Cup, Rory McIlroy has taken on the leadership mantle for Europe and the Northern Irishman issued a rallying call on Thursday, saying the holders were playing for history at Bethpage Black.

He completed his long-sought career Grand Slam at Augusta this year and will chase an away victory on Long Island with the same ferocity as he fought for the green jacket in his eighth trip to the biennial golf spectacle.

"We are playing for history and we're playing for the players that came before us," said McIlroy, who has been to the Ryder Cup more than any player on either team.

"We are also playing for the guys that are going to come behind us, as well, the young boys that are dreaming of becoming European Ryder Cup playe

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