Rory McIlroy has admitted that he had "no option but to win" his Ryder Cup singles encounter against Rickie Fowler this afternoon.
The 25-year-old, who has enjoyed a stellar year with two Majors triumphs, edged out his opponent to record a 5&4 victory at Gleneagles, leaving Europe on the brink of retaining the cup.
"I was probably more up for this day than I was for the final two days of the majors this year," McIlroy told Sky Sports News.
"There was no option but to win. All week it has been a pleasure to play in front of these fans and these crowds. It's been amazing and I'm going to go and cheer on the rest of the boys now."
Europe now need just two points to win the 2014 Ryder Cup.