Golfing great Tiger Woods has been indirectly guaranteed a Ryder Cup spot by US skipper Corey Pavin. The World No 1 has failed to clinch an automatic place in the American team after flopping at the USPGA.
Woods had to finish in the top 15 for an automatic place in the team to face Europe at Celtic Manor in Wales in October. However, he finished 28th on a one-over 73, and nine shots behind winner Martin Kaymer.
When asked to discuss the “pros and cons” of picking Woods as a wild card, Pavin said: “Well, he’s the No 1 player in the world. That’s a pretty good ‘pro’. He’s working on some things that seem to be improving his game. I was pleased to see that happen and he played better this weekend.”
“His comments to the press are very positive. He wants to play and he wants to be on the team. It’s my judgment whether I pick him or not, but I don’t think there are any cons,” the Sun quoted Pavin, as saying.
Pavin has four wild card picks, which will be announced on September 7, ahead of the Celtic Manor shootout against Europe in October. Woods had earlier confirmed that he wants to play in the tournament and would accept a wild card.
“I’d like to make the team, but didn’t manage it on points so I’ll have to rely on Corey. It’s whether he wants me,” Woods said. “My game is heading in the right direction, so I feel I could help the team. Hopefully, Corey will see that,” he added.