Ryder Cup: Due to their choice to leave the DP World Tour, Sergio Garcia, Ian Poulter, and Lee Westwood will no longer have the opportunity to lead Europe’s Ryder Cup squad in the future, according to Rory McIlroy.
They are no longer allowed to participate when the biannual competition versus the United States kicks off in Rome on September 29 due to their exit from Europe’s premier tour.
Following the controversy, Westwood spoke out against the DP World Tour on Thursday, effectively killing off any chance of a future comeback.
And McIlroy added, “I think it’s unfortunate that you have the highest points scorer in Ryder Cup history, Garcia, and two players, Poulter and Westwood, whose Ryder Cup contributions for Europe will likely be a significant part of their legacy when they reflect on their careers.
“It’s unfortunate that those three men will never lead Europe as captain.
“But as the DP World Tour noted in their statement, in the end, they made that decision and recognised that it might have negative effects, and now we find ourselves in this situation.
“Yeah, it’s really too bad.”
Luke Donald, the captain of Europe, reiterated McIlroy’s comments and expressed his regret that the three will not be able to play for the team.
“It’s unfortunate that we’ve reached this position, but Donald told BBC Sport that it was always a possibility. “I played with all three, and both the Ryder Cup and the European Tour have benefited greatly from their dedication and support.
“I feel a little clearer now. I am aware that they cannot join my squad or play on it. It’s unfortunate. When it comes to the Ryder Cup, they have a rich history.
“I wish them well, but in the end, this is their decision. They believe that this was the best decision for them, and now I must decide what is best for me.
“Throughout the Ryder Cup’s history, there have been generational shifts; perhaps this is one of them.
“We have a tonne of excellent players to choose from, and I’m thrilled with how everyone has performed thus far this year.”
After Henrik Stenson was demoted for participating in the LIV tour supported by Saudi Arabia, Donald was appointed captain in 2022.
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