TPC Boston, MA … No sooner had Russell Knox suggested possible changes to the Ryder Cup selection process and European Team captain, Darren Clarke has also lent his weight to likely changes.
Knox has been reported earlier today expressing not only his bitter disappointment but also the European Tour should consider incorporating the FedEx Cup Play-Off Series in the European Team qualifying period.
See story – http://www.golfbytourmiss.com/2016/08/bitterly-disappointed-russell-knox-suggests-changes-to-european-ryder-cup-selection-process/
Now Clarke, and as reported by good friend and (UK) Daily Mirror colleague, Neil McLemon, seems to agree.
Photo with thanks to www.dailymirror.co.uk)
If so, it would follow suit with the USA Team given the fiasco that occurred two years ago when Billy Horschel win the final two events of the FedEx Cup in 2014 but after the 12 USA Gleneagles team members had been chosen. It has since led to be called ‘Billy Horschel Syndrome’ and that’s why Davis Love 111 will not announce his fourth and final ‘wildcard’ pick until the night following the Tour Championship in Altanta.
“When I broke the news to Russell I actually told him the best way he could react was by winning the FedEx Cup title,” said Clarke.
“And I genuinely hope he does it.
“If Russell was to win the FedEx, I suppose it might be something the European Tour and future captains might want to look at. But as things stand, I’m happy with the choice I’ve made.”
And as www.golfbytourmiss reported, Knox spoke of the not being friends with Clarke or the Europeans that made the team that could have proved pivotal in not being picked.
“Playing full time in the US probably hurt me, to be honest,” said Knox also to Neil.
“I know I joined the European Tour but, correct me if I’m wrong, I don’t think anyone has got a pick for Europe while playing full time in the US.
“That hurt me for a few reasons.
“It didn’t allow me to have a relationship with anyone. I mean, I’m not close with any of them, Darren, Paul Lawrie… Nobody really reached out — nor did I, to get closer or get more friendly.
“I’m happy with what I’ve done and how I’ve played. I gave everything to make the team and it wasn’t meant to be.
“Don’t take this out of context.
“It’s not their job to reach out, hold my hand and drag me through. It was 100 per cent my responsibility to do my part and maybe try and include myself a bit more.
“But it’s not about friends. It’s not about having 12 best friends on the team.
“It’s having the 12 best European players that Darren feels he can win the Ryder Cup with, and clearly he didn’t feel I was one of those 12.
“I have to be okay with that.”
