Rory McIlroy would like to see twenty more years of Ryder Cup action after his emotional exit from Europe's 19-9 record-breaking defeat at Whisling Straits.

However, Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood, who were stagers in their own right, accepted that this was their final game as players and signed off before their teenage sons with singles wins.

McIlroy, 32 was visibly upset after his win in the singles against Olympic champion Xander Schiffele. He said that he had "let down his team-mates" having lost his three previous matches.

He was nevertheless in a defiant mood while Europe watched the Americans celebrate on the 18th Green, and vowed that he would make things right in Rome within two years.

McIlroy stated: "There is a tremendous talent on the US team. I think the most important thing about them is that they have many great young players who have invested in The Ryder Cup.

"I believe that this was missing in previous generations. Guys like Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas - who are the heartbeat of the US team - really understand the Ryder Cup's team aspect.

"They will be formidable opposition from now on until I'm probably no longer playing Ryder Cups any more, whenever that may be - in hopefully twenty year's time."

"We appear to be in a situation where the home team has an advantage. It is up to us that we make it count when it comes to Rome.

"You can see the meaning of this event in my reaction to my singles match. This week was hard, and we'll always remember that feeling.

Westwood, 48 years old, is certain to get the captaincy for Rome.

Even if his 11th Ryder Cup is his last, his match ended with a stunning birdie at Harris English's last. This was especially so with his 19-year old son Sam playing as his caddy.

Westwood stated that he would rather play, but he will be 49 by April and Father Time isn’t kind.

"The result was clearly not what we expected.

"But when it's about singles, you just need to take care your match and hope enough guys do the same for you to turn it around.

"I was proud to show that I had fought back from being two down with only four to play and beat Harris on the last.

"It may be my last match, but I was able to share it with my boy.

These are rare moments. Because you are representing Europe, many people can see that you are representing Europe.

"If you don't have passion and pride, it's not for your." Do not bother to turn up.

Westwood said he would take the captaincy and would request four wildcards instead of three. However, he wouldn't ask for six as that is what American captain Steve Stricker received.

Westwood said, "For me, four picks are enough. Players should still have a chance of qualifying.

"I believe if they can withstand the pressure to secure an automatic spot, they have proven they've got it for the Ryder Cup."

Poulter (45) can be expected to succeed Westwood in the role of captain when the Ryder Cup is returned to the States in 2025 at Bethpage Black in New York.

He stated that even his incredible unbeaten streak in Ryder Cup singles, six wins and one lost match - was no consolation for such an awful loss. This is only his second European tour appearance.

Poulter said: "We had a 25-minute drive into the course, I have Kate and Luke in my car and there wasn't a lot conversation. Your mind wanders.

Is this it? "Is this the last match in a Ryder Cup team?

"It was nice that we won, but it wasn't enough. On Saturday night, I looked around in the team room wishing that I could be twenty again.

It's difficult. It's difficult to remember how many times you've been part of successful teams and played in so many games. It can be difficult.