Image Courtesy of the AP
With the 2014 Ryder Cup right around the corner, Tom Watson was faced with the choice of choosing one of the greatest golfers of all-time or passing on him with one of his three Captains Picks. The debate was in full force as to whether Tiger Woods, in his current health and state, was worthy of inclusion on the 2014 Ryder Cup team. Luckily for Tom Watson, Tiger Woods made that decision easy. Tiger noted that he has talked to Tom Watson and also released a statement in relation to his Ryder Cup status.
“While I greatly appreciate Tom thinking about me for a possible captain’s pick, I must take myself out of consideration. I’ve been told by my doctors and trainer that my back muscles need to be rehabilitated and healed. They’ve advised me not to play or practice now.”
“I’m extremely disappointed that I won’t be ready for the competition. The U.S. team and the Ryder Cup mean too much to me not to be able to give it my best. I’ll be cheering for the U.S. team. I think we have an outstanding squad going into the matches.”
While unfortunate for Tiger Woods, this is probably the best thing could happen to an underdog United States Ryder Cup team. If Tiger was on the team, he could have been in poor form and not ready for competition let alone the Ryder Cup. Even when healthy he has not been a dominant Ryder Cup force. Is his Ryder Cup career, Tiger is 13-14-2 in 29 matches. His last couple of Ryder Cups he was better especially in 2010 while paired with Steve Stricker.
Overall, Watson is now able to sit back and come up with his three Captains selections by September 2nd. However, Watson did leave us a couple of comments about Tiger Woods and his plan regarding this year’s competition.
“My primary wish is for Tiger to be healthy and competitive, and I hope that he’ll return to the game very soon,” Watson said. “Of course I’m disappointed that Tiger Woods has asked to not be considered for the U.S. Ryder Cup team, and that his health is not where he would like it to be.”
“However, I think we can all agree that we need Tiger Woods in this great sport, and he has taken the high road by informing me early on in the selection process. My focus will be on identifying three players to join the U.S. team and give us the best chance for success at Gleneagles.”
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