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Faldo: Lack of Tiger could make US stronger at Ryder Cup

21/06/2008

Losing Tiger Woods to injury could make the US team stronger at this September's Ryder Cup, according to Europe captain Nick Faldo.

US Open champion Woods has withdrawn from the remaining dates on this season's tour due to undergo an operation on his troublesome knee.

But in Faldo's opinion, the loss of the world's leading player from the US lineup does not necessarily hand the initiative to the Europeans.

"On the one side it could be a loss, but on the other they know they don't have the option to bank on Tiger this year," he told the Press Association.

"I'm sure they'll all pull together because of that."

The 2008 Ryder Cup takes place at the Valhalla course in Kentucky from September 19th-21st, with the European golfers in search of a third consecutive win.

It would be expected that US confidence could be hit by the withdrawal of Woods, their leading points scorer in the 2006 defeat, though six-time major winner Faldo believes the Americans will find strength in numbers.

"I don't think it's a given that it improves our chances", he said.

"The best player in the world over 18 holes in matchplay can be very vulnerable - players raise their game in that kind of situation.

"On paper we're coming off some strong wins and have a great tradition of team spirit in the Ryder Cup, but look at the rankings and you'll see that the US has a wealth of talent.

"This is matchplay. You're playing for pride and a point and that makes things pretty equal."

He added: "Ultimately, we'll just have to wait and see and, in the meantime, let's hope that Tiger makes a swift recovery."