Tough course may hurt US no-shows
JON RAHM is shocked so many USA Ryder Cup hopefuls have spurned the chance to check out the course in France.
The 23-year-old Spaniard is a near-certainty for a debut appearance for Europe at Le Golf National in September.
Rahm, the world No5, and a powerful European line-up will run the rule over the daunting test at the French Open near Versailles from tomorrow.
But only world No2 Justin Thomas has taken advantage of a golden opportunity for Jim Furyk’s men so close to the showdown.
Rahm is joined by Sergio Garcia, Tommy Fleetwood, Alex Noren, Tyrrell Hatton, Rafael Cabrera Bello and Ian Poulter. “I really thought there would be more players from the American team,” said Rahm, who was fourth at this year’s Masters. “I thought there would, be four or five, and if not the players that are already guaranteed then maybe those on the edge. “If they came to show their interest and had a good week they could show they compete on this course.
“But I understand it is tough, there are good tournaments on the PGA tour, and in changing the schedule you would come over here for one week, go back home, then come back for the British Open. I would say the only reason Justin Thomas is here is to scout
the could course. I played it last year and being such a big event, most of the Europeans who are going to play the Ryder Cup – if not all of them – have played the course and know the course.
“It is good for you to play this course as many times as you can to get comfortable on it. It’s really difficult, but it’s fair, and you can think your way around it. If you are smart enough you can get a score, but you have to play really well to win.
“It is one of my favourite courses all year, worldwide. From the first shot to the last it is challenging and beautiful.
“The 18th hole…it is extremely difficult: an island green with a narrow fairway and trouble right and left.
“It has to be in the top five most difficult finishing holes, maybe with the 18th at Carnoustie and the last at Oakmont as well.”