The Waiting is Over

Adding to Watson’s woes is the fact that he’ll be without two of his main men. Although Tiger Woods has never been at his best during the Ryder Cup - his record of 13 wins, 17 losses and three halved matches is surprisingly poor and contrasts strikingly with the form he’s displayed at the Presidents Cup - there can be little doubt that the American side is weaker without him. The same can also be said of Dustin Johnson. The long-hitting Johnson, who has taken a leave of absence from the professional game amid much speculation about his private life, will certainly be missed. Although the match is being played in Scotland, the Centenary Course at Gleaneagles is a thoroughly modern affair, one that was designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. You have to think that Johnson, who prior to his withdrawal had been in rich vein of form, would have bagged a hatful of points for his captain.

So the Americans are up against it. Or are they? Some have derided their side (even before Watson announces his wildcard picks) as the worst since the US team that capitulated at the K Club in 2006, losing by a full nine points. The Americans fielded four rookies that year and they’ll have at least three at Gleneagles this time around. But in Jimmy Walker (three-time winner on the PGA Tour this year), Jordan Spieth (one of the most promising young prospects in the game today) and Patrick Reed (a feisty competitor who has already won a World Golf Championships event) talent abounds. Mix this with the experience of the in-form Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk, double Masters champion Bubba Watson and the impressive Rickie Fowler and this is certainly a team that could spring a surprise. If anything, holding underdog status is a boon for the Americans. In 2008 at Valhalla, when the Europeans were expected to clean up, that Tiger-less side, captained expertly by Paul Azinger, gelled immediately and completely outplayed Nick Faldo’s. Who’s to say the same won’t materialise again? That’s the beauty of the Ryder Cup. Very little is certain. But it’s sure to provide great entertainment.