US captain Jim Furyk targets Tiger Woods for 2027 Ryder Cup role
United States captain Jim Furyk hopes to include Tiger Woods in his backroom staff for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, despite the golfing icon’s recent arrest and ongoing recovery.
Woods is currently receiving treatment in Switzerland following a car crash near his Florida home in March that led to a driving under the influence (DUI) charge.
Authorities found the former world number one in possession of prescription hydrocodone pills, which he uses for pain management after enduring numerous career-threatening operations.
Respecting the road to recovery
The newly appointed US skipper revealed he has deliberately delayed contacting his former team-mate out of respect for his rehabilitation process.
“We haven’t spoken yet. I think, out of kind of courtesy for him and his family and I know maybe a road to health, I haven’t reached out but I will.”
“Definitely. We’ll see where that role may fall.”
Invaluable experience for Team USA
Furyk previously led the American side during their heavy defeat at Le Golf National in 2018 and has served alongside the 15-time major champion as a vice-captain on multiple occasions.
“I will say I enjoyed serving – I use that word serving – as a vice-captain with him a number of times. I think he brought a lot to the team room and a lot of knowledge and a lot of experience.”
The prospect of integrating the legendary competitor into an advisory capacity is seen as a crucial step in America’s bid to reclaim the famous golden trophy.
Europe will look to capitalise on home advantage in Ireland, having convincingly won the last two editions of the biennial competition.