Tiger Hopes to Qualify for Ryder Cup
When asked today at the Bridgestone Classic if he would accept an invite from captain Corey Pavin, Tiger responded with "I'm planning on playing my way on time to team." When pressed further, he quoted the same line, several times.
The worlds number one ranked player finds himself on the outside looking in for team USA. As of today, he is in 9th place and only the top eight qualify. Could we have a Ryder Cup without the best player in the world? Could team USA win without him when they tee off at Celtic Manor in Wales come October? Sure, but it would probably be better to have him play than not.
Running Out of Time
As of today Tiger sits 163 points out of the last automatic qualifying spot held by Dustin Johnson and 165 out of the 7th spot, held by Matt kuchar. There are only two events left to qualify, the WGC Bridgestone Invitational and the PGA Championship. If you read my previous article about Tiger and the Bridgestone,, you can bet he'll make up some ground this weekend.
What if He Doesn't Qualify
If he Tiger can't catch Johnson or Kuchar, chances are USA Captain Corey Pavin will offer one of the two captains picks to Tiger. Wouldn't you? But will Tiger accept it? In a year of controversy and struggles (he's still #1 in the world) would Tiger turn his back on Team USA? I hope not.
Love him or hate him, Tiger can play the game and he's a competitor. When it's a matter of national pride, I want him on my side. When it's a match play competition, no one wants to play against him.
I think Tiger will finish in the top 8 and receive and automatic bid but if he doesn't, I hope does the right thing and accepts Mr. Pavin's offer.
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