Smells like team spirit for happy Fitzpatrick

The 21-year-old will tee off this morning alongside fellow Sheffield golfer Danny Willett as part of Team Europe as they meet their Asian counterparts in Malaysia.

And he says he has enjoyed the build-up to the event before a golf shot has been made.

“I think the big thing is probably the banter within the team,” Fitzpatrick said. “I think everyone on the outside probably thinks we’re all so serious and really grim, but it feels like it’s just one big laugh.

“Me personally, I haven’t stopped laughing playing with Danny, Lee [Westwood] and [Ian] Poulter.

“I think for me, it’s obviously something I really enjoy and it doesn’t feel like there’s so much pressure so far.

“It’s good to just keep enjoying it.”

Both Fitzpatrick and Willett share the dream of representing Europe in the Ryder Cup, something which could become a reality in 2016 should they continue their excellent form from last season.

For Willett, this weekend’s event provides a timely opportunity to show his competence at team golf.

But for Fitzpatrick who is less than two years into his professional career, the format is familiar.

He said: “I’m playing foursomes and fourballs and the last time I did was the Ryder Cup two years ago – I wish.

“It was the Walker Cup two years ago.

“For some of these guys it’s probably four, five, six years since they have played amateur golf.

“I always enjoy team golf and it seems like all the lads are enjoying it so far.

“That’s a big thing. You’ve got to go out there and play as well as you can but at the same time enjoy it.”

Fitzpatrick and Willett will tee off at 12.50am on Friday morning in Kuala Lumpur against Byeong Hun An and Thongchai Jaidee.