Team USA captain Zach Johnson says it took a lot of thought and mulling over of different factors before settling on his six Ryder Cup wildcard picks, but is sure he’s made the right choice.
Justin Thomas was the big name included despite his run of poor form, and he was joined by Jordan Spieth, Sam Burns, Brooks Koepka, Collin Morikawa and Rickie Fowler.
Johnson gave some insight into how difficult it was making the selections as he had to take into account their experience, records, personality and even how their games fitted into the course they’ll tackle in Rome.
“When it came down to making these decisions, personalities, team room, camaraderie, and make no mistake, the golf course and the fit for Marco Simone was a big part of it, as well,” said Johnson.
And here’s what the USA skipper had to say about his six wildcard picks and their individual Ryder Cup records.
Justin Thomas
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Ryder Cup appearances: 2 (2018, 2021)
Ryder Cup record: 6-2-1 (Foursomes: 2-2 Fourballs: 2-0-1 Singles: 2-0)
The big talking point of the entire qualification process has been over Justin Thomas, but Johnson has gone for Ryder Cup experience over current form and hopes that JT can be America’s Ian Poulter in Rome.
Johnson: “Yes, Justin Thomas, one of the most talented players on the PGA Tour in my opinion. He has without question been the heart and soul of Team USA, Ryder Cups, our emotional leader I would say, and I don’t think he would argue with that. He just leads by example.
“Overall a fantastic Ryder Cup record. His passion for the Ryder Cup is very evident. He would say it himself. He has said it himself.
“In my mind, he was born for this, and there is – you just don’t leave JT at home.”
Jordan Spieth
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Ryder Cup appearances: 4 (2014, 2016, 2018, 2021)
Ryder Cup record: 8-7-3 (Foursomes: 3-2-2 Fourballs: 5-2 Singles: 0-3-1)
Jordan Spieth has never won a Ryder Cup singles match in four attempts, but will have the chance to rectify that after getting a relatively simple pick from Johnson – after a solid if unspectacular season. Spieth has the magic ingredient though that can produce something special in these team…
..
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Golf Monthly RSS Feed…