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Rory McIlroy ready to take on all U.S. comers at Ryder Cup

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy knows he has a target on his back at next week's Ryder Cup. A two-time major winner this season, McIlroy is the de facto leader of the European side looking for a third consecutive win. The Ulsterman said Thursday he's happy to take on any player American captain Tom Watson sends out to be his foil.

“Whoever they want to send out against me, it’s no problem to me,” McIlroy said in an appearance for sponsor Santander in London. “I want to lead from the front and by example, and I’m confident enough in the way I am playing right now to do that.”

McIlroy realizes any time he doesn't walk away from a match with a full point will be a disappointment for him and, more critically, a big moral boost to the American side.

“I know I will have a target on my back but I love that and I am going to play up to it as much as I can,” he said. “It’s a massive compliment whenever the opposition are talking about you. I know what a huge fillip it would be for them if I lose, but it is up to me to make sure it doesn’t happen.”

The 25-year-old will likely play in all five sessions over the three-day event. McIlroy said he's happy to partner with countryman Graeme McDowell, who has been a good partner with him in the last two Ryder Cups. McIlroy downplayed the impact on their relationship of an ongoing lawsuit McIlroy filed against their once-shared representation, Horizon Sports Management. McDowell announced earlier this summer he'd be tending to his own representation at year's end.

"I’d love to play with G-Mac," McIlroy said. "I think everyone can see the chemistry we have together and there’s no reason why it can’t be the same this time. We were both playing in Denver two weeks ago and went out to dinner together. There’s no problem between us."


Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.