Frenchman Raphael Jacquelin has competed in a number of team events with the exception of one, the Ryder Cup.

The 37-year old Lyon-born Jacquelin, who now lives in Switzerland with his young family, first represented France in the 2000 in the Alfred Dunhill Cup while a year later he pulled on the French colours in the first of seven straight World Cup appearances.

In 2002, Jacquelin took the big step in qualifying for the Vivendi Seve Trophy side at Druids Glen in Ireland.

Raphael Jacquelin must next start thinking of Ryder Cup selection. (Photo - www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Jacquelin was teamed with fellow Frenchman Thomas Levet and it was a shock first-up victory for the all-France duo over the more talented pairing of Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke.

But while Westwood would exact revenge in the Singles, Jacquelin’s reputation for team’s competition was cast.

He then qualified for the 2003 Continental Europe side and also was selected to compete in the event four years later.

Jacquelin missed out two years ago but this year he makes his way back into the team after the late withdrawal of injured Spaniard Alvaro Quiros.

Heading into this week’s Vivendi Seve Trophy, Jacquelin has played 15 matches, winning eight, losing six and drawing one for 8 ½ points.

It’s the second equal highest among the 29 players to have represented Continental Europe since the event began in 2000.

But what is lacking from Jacquelin’s golfing CV is the pinnacle of team competition – the Ryder Cup.

“I just hope I don’t have to wait until 2018,” he said in response to a question by www.golfbytourmiss.com

“I will be trying to qualify to play next year, of course. I will be trying my best. 

“But as José said yesterday, it’s getting really tight to be part of the team, of the Ryder Cup Team.  He said it’s more difficult now, actually.

“You just have to do your best as you do every week, and then it’s just a little thing that could change the order and then you can be picked up or maybe straight on the team.

“So there’s not much I can do.  All I can do is just try my best and keep working hard every week and we’ll see if it’s going to be enough for next year and two years down. 

“We’ll see for 2018 but then I’ll be 44, so should be all right (laughing).  Still young”.

In his three Vivendi Seve Trophy appearances Jacquelin is yet to taste success.

However one of few bearded players competing in Europe is confident the Jean Van de Velde captained side can turn the tables on GB & I and on French soil.

“With Thomas Björn winning the two events in a row, and many other winners on the team we think we can win this year,” said Jacquelin.

“I am playing the first match with Nicolas Colsaerts who hits the ball a long way which I think is going to help in Fourballs.

“So he can manage a different kind of game.

“But overall our team is really strong, feels strong.  And you have got some guys, as well, like myself and in older guys, we have got a bit more experience than the young guys.

“The GB & I side is always good and that is also the case this year with the No. 2 in the world, Lee Westwood, and with Darren Clarke winning The Open. 

“But it’s going to be fun.”

Of course, if Jacquelin does qualify for the Ryder Cup he will become only the third Frenchman behind Van de Velde and Levet to represent Europe.