There were no surprises when USA Team captain, Jim Furyk revealed his three captain’s picks last night with Woods, Mickelson and DeChambeau confirmed.
Furyk heaped particular praise on 14-times major champion Woods, who will now relinquish his role as a vice-captain.
“It’s been great to have his help and to get a little feel of one of the best minds in the history of the game on your side helping you out,” he said.
Woods, 42, will return after missing the past two Ryder Cups with a persistent back injury.
“I haven’t been part of the team playing-wise for six years,” Woods said. “This year to have the honour of being able to play again is beyond special.”
“This team is young, full of guys in their 20s. We’ve got an unbelievable veteran leader in Phil who’s been around the Ryder Cup since before some of these guys were born. It’s a great mix of guys.”
Woods has a pedestrian Ryder Cup record of 13 wins, 17 losses and three halves, though he has been stellar in singles, losing only once, on his debut in 1997.
Mickelson, 48, will be making a record 12th appearance in the event, moving past European great Nick Faldo.
Furyk will announce his final captain’s pick next Monday to complete the 12-man team while European captain Thomas Bjorn will name his four captain’s picks today at 2pm to complete the home team.
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