The clamour for Tiger Woods to become Team USA captain for next year’s Ryder Cup shows no signs of abating, with former Scottish golfer Bernard Gallacher supporting him for the prestigious position.
Despite never having led his country in the historic game, Woods is widely seen as the leading prospect to assume the reins in 2025. His Ryder Cup record includes eight appearances as a player and a vice leadership position in 2016.
The buzz about Woods’ probable appointment was fueled further when he spoke favorably about it at the Masters this month. Gallacher, a three-time European team captain, has joined the rising chorus of support for Woods’ candidacy.
In an interview with Bunkered, Gallacher, who has made eight Ryder Cup appearances, commented, “They’re just picking their moment to announce Tiger.” Tiger is a unique instance. They want him to be captain of Bethpage. They need to win again and rehabilitate themselves after their poor performance in Rome. He would be an excellent captain because guys of his generation want to do well for Tiger.”
Gallacher discussed the advantages of appointing Woods as captain, citing the commercial attraction that comes with the worldwide recognized sports celebrity. He added: “Commercially, it would maintain his brand there.
“Being a Ryder Cup captain, especially when he isn’t on the course as much, would help to keep his brand relevant. He has his own clothing, so it would assist.”
Nonetheless, Gallacher recognized that Woods committing to an unusual four-year term spanning two events was doubtful. “He’d be an excellent home captain, for sure. But the problem is that if he wins in New York, he may then say, “I don’t want to be captain in Ireland because I’ve already won it and don’t want to go there and lose.”
When asked about being Team USA’s next captain during his 24th appearance at Augusta, Woods declined to confirm anything but suggested that conversations would continue after the tournament. He said, “We’re still discussing it. It’s something Seth [Waugh, the PGA of America’s CEO], and I will discuss after the event.
“I said I’m going to be busy for a couple weeks, so let me focus on getting through this week and hopefully getting another jacket, and then we can sit back and talk about it next week.”
