Watson's Ryder Cup Call
Tom Watson will become the oldest captain in Ryder Cup history after being named as United States skipper for the 2014 event at Gleneagles upon his return from Australia.
"I was waiting for about 20 years to get the call," he told the American broadcast network ABC. "It is a great honour to do it again."
Eight-time Major champion Watson was the last US captain to record an away win, with a 1993 victory at the Belfry.
David Toms and Larry Nelson were also tipped to take the job for the event which runs from 26-28 September 2014.
The decision, news of which was broken on NBC's morning Today Show ahead of a formal news conference near the top of New York's Empire State Building, represents a move away from the PGA of America's policy of appointing major-winning players in their mid-to-late 40s as skipper for the biennial competition.
At 65 when play begins in Scotland, Watson will overtake John Henry Taylor, who was 62 when he performed the role for Great Britain in 1933. He will also be eight years older than previous American record holder Sam Snead, who was in charge as the two sides played out a draw in 1969.
The choice was backed by 14-time major winner Tiger Woods – a player Watson had previously criticised for his behaviour both on and off the course.
"I'd like to congratulate Tom Watson on his selection as Ryder Cup captain," the former world number one said. "I think he's a really good choice. Tom knows what it takes to win, and that's our ultimate goal. I hope I have the privilege of joining him on the 2014 United States team."
Watson admitted he is desperate for Woods to be on his side at Gleneagles.
Said Watson: "First of all, I hope he [Woods] is on the team.
"I don't think there is a tougher competitor maybe in the history of the game than Tiger. He is someone who anyone would want on his team."
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