American Ryder Cup Captain and proud Wisconsinite, Steve Stricker believes it would be “a crime” to play the famous biennial event without fans this September.
It’s expected that the PGA of America and the European Tour will come to a decision before month’s end as to the fate of this year’s proposed tournament set for Whistling Straits.
But for Stricker, the decision is a simple one and it hinges on whether or not the fans are allowed to attend.
“This event is made by the fans,” said Stricker. “If it was without fans, it almost would be a yawner of an event.
“To cheat out the Wisconsin fans would be a crime. I hope when we do have it, it can be up to its full potential.”
As it stands on the calendar, this year’s duel is set to go ahead from the 25-27 of September but it remains far from certain. Stricker’s not alone in voicing his opposition to the playing of the Match without fans with Rory McIlroy amongst those adamant that a Ryder Cup wouldn’t be a Ryder Cup without the atmosphere that comes with it.
“So far, we’re planning it as it’s a go, like we’re going to have it but there’s some obstacles that we’re going to have to face,” Stricker said to Golf Affect Radio.
“The confidence of the people and the corporate people. It’s going to come down to probably the safety. And who knows, right?”
Like Stricker, European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley expects a decision to arrive this month.
“We will have the conversations now and we will have a direction by the end of the month,” Pelley said to the McKellar Golf podcast.
Let’s hope they reach the right one.
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