McDowell looks to overcome disappointment

GLENEAGLES, Scotland (AP) - Two years after the "Miracle of Medinah," it's not just the Americans seeking redemption at the Ryder Cup.

Graeme McDowell holed the winning putt for Europe at Celtic Manor in 2010 but was a peripheral figure in Medinah, earning one point from four matches as his partnership with Rory McIlroy struggled.

Europe's come-from-behind victory, from 10-5 down at one stage Saturday evening, has gone down in lore but it was tinged with disappointment for the Northern Irishman.

"I was low on energy," McDowell said, "I was physically not where I needed to be and that became evident as the week went on."

He has been desperate to make amends ever since.

McDowell has experienced it all at the Ryder Cup - the first shot (2012), the last shot (2010) and everything in between.

But the man who said he "embraces high-pressure scenarios" took a backward step in the singles at Medinah, placing himself in the middle of the draw on the Sunday and losing 2 and 1 to Zach Johnson.

"Perhaps I needed that little bit of intensity of the last groups," he said. "Perhaps come Sunday, if it's needed, I will put myself a little bit further down the order and ask the question of myself and focus my mind again."

McDowell isn't short of galvanizing influences. A month ago, his wife, Kristin, gave birth to their first child, Vale Esme, and McDowell tied for 36th in his only tournament since - the BMW Championship in Colorado.

He is counting on a "delayed nappy (diaper) effect" kicking in for his fourth straight Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

"By the time I got to Denver, I actually experienced a little bit of a flat, a little bit of a downer," McDowell said. "But I've come to terms with that, I've come to terms with the fact that sleeping is done, is gone forever. And I arrive here this week feeling fresh and ready to go."

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