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McIlroy expecting the fright of his life at Celtic Manor

Rory McIlroy would love to partner Graeme McDowell on Friday © Getty Images

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Stay tuned to ESPN throughout the week for live coverage, news, views and reaction from the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor

Rory McIlroy has confessed 'I'm probably going to feel as nervous as I've ever felt' when he takes to the opening tee at the 2010 Ryder Cup.

McIlroy is preparing to make his Ryder Cup debut at Celtic Manor when Europe renews acquaintances with rivals USA on Friday. Currently the famous trophy belongs to Corey Pavin's American side, and McIlroy is one of the 12 men charged with reclaiming it for Colin Montgomerie's Europe.

Graeme McDowell, a fellow Northern Irishman, has tasted the Ryder Cup atmosphere in the past and, despite winning his maiden major title this year at the US Open, he describes his losing experience two years ago in Valhalla as one of the best of his career. However, he warned McIlroy that he will never have tasted anything like it.

"You arrive at the hotel, you see the signs and the buzz, and you start getting really excited about it," McDowell told Sky Sports News.

"The Ryder Cup two years ago was one of the most enjoyable experiences I've ever had on a golf course. Winning a major was more relief than anything.

"As Rory's going to find out, this weekend's a big buzz and it's a completely different atmosphere altogether."

At 21 years of age, McIlroy already has a PGA Tour title to his name at Quail Hollow, but the youngster confesses he is preparing himself for a new test of character at Celtic Manor.

"I'm probably going to feel as nervous as I've ever felt on a golf course," said McIlroy. "But that's completely natural, I'm expecting that, and I feel as though it's going to be a great week."

A pairing with compatriot McDowell might just ease the nerves for McIlroy, but he is prepared to accept whichever partner Montgomerie gives him when the opening pairings are announced on Friday.

"We'd love to play together, but that's up to Colin Montgomerie to decide," he said. "He'll choose whichever pairings he thinks will work best."

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