Colin Montgomerie named Ryder Cup captain
- Wednesday, 28 January 2009
- 3 Comments
Colin Montgomerie is Europe's new Ryder Cup captain
Colin Montgomerie has been named the new European Ryder Cup captain tasked with winning back the trophy when the Americans visit Celtic Manor in Wales next year.
The European tour committee made the announcement in Dubai ahead of the Race to Dubai’s Dubai Desert Classic.
"This is obviously one of my proudest moments," said the Scot.
"It is a huge responsibility having lost the last Ryder Cup.It is important we do everything we can to claim back the Ryder Cup in 2010."
Jose Maria Olazabal and Ian Woosnam were also in contention, but Montgomerie was widely tipped since he voiced his interest in the role recently.
Although the news will be welcomed by the Tour pros in contention for next year’s contest - Paul Casey being one of the latest to speak of his admiration for the Scot – renown coach Butch Harmon recently admitted his concern should Monty be selected.
“I was very surprised that Colin Montgomerie wanted to be captain because I think Olazabal and Monty could still make the team,” said Harmon just a few days ago.
The eight-time Order of Merit winner was widely expected to lead the European side in the 2014 contest in his native Scotland, but he now has the chance to skipper the side as they look to win the Cup straight back from Corey Pavin’s men.
Montgomerie, 45, has played 36 Ryder Cup matches over eight separate tournaments from 1991-2006, and has amassed 23½ points in that time.
Where next?
Betting: Dubai Desert Classic betting guide
Tour news: Leisurecorp unveil Earth Course in Dubai
Equipment news: TaylorMade R9 driver launch; Mizuno MX-700 driver launch
Golf Monthly Forum: Who got your vote?
Gallery: Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie: Six of the best
Industry news: The Butch Harmon School of Golf launched in Dubai
Reader comments
Add your commentsJanuary 29 11:32
Andrew Scott
Well done Colin, you deserve it. Good luck to you and the team!
February 06 16:34
Brian Mullan
Congrats Colin . I hope that you win a major. Robert de Vincenco was 44 when he won at Hoylake. Look at what Greg Norman achieved at last year's Open.
Brian Mullan
February 13 16:47
Clive Wood
Delighted to hear that you have been given the captaincy, a honour you richly deserve and my friends and I feel sure you will bring the Cup back. Good luck to you and the team and here's hoping the first "Major" isn't too far away as well.