Casey’s drive to return
PAUL CASEY insists he is hungrier than ever to win the Ryder Cup after dodging another “Monty moment”.
The then world No.7 was playing in the 2010 FedEx play-offs when he learned – on the course – that he had not been a wildcard pick by Colin Montgomerie for Celtic Manor.
Casey resigned from the European Tour in 2015 to concentrate on keeping his PGA Tour card and was not eligible for Hazeltine the following year.
But after rejoining at the end of last year and holding off Tiger Woods to win the Valspar Championship in March, the veteran of two winning European teams has been rewarded with a pick for Paris. Captain Thomas Bjorn called his selection a “no-brainer”.
And the world No.16, now 41, said: “It’s been 10 years since I last played a Ryder Cup and I’m not sure I have the words to describe the joy and relief.
“It was frustrating to be on the outside two years ago and I know what the feeling is of missing out as I did in 2010 – that was the naughtiest one.
Tough
“I would like to have qualified automatically this time but I had great dialogue with Thomas all the way through.
“From my end, it seemed like he’s had amazing communication and he had some very tough phone calls to make this week.
“But I did get the phone call I wanted, and, yeah, no more ‘Monty moments’.”
Matchplay specialist Casey, who nailed a hole-inone at the K Club in 2006, added: “Without question, my hunger and intensity will be stronger after 10 years away.
“I’m probably more prepared, more excited and I feel it’s more of an honour than ever before to be representing Europe and be part of this team.
“I feel I can be a massive part of the team on and off the golf course, and do everything in my power to assist Europe in trying to win back the Ryder Cup.
“Once you’ve tasted it and you’ve missed it, coming back is so much sweeter.”
Henrik Stenson missed the first FedEx Cup play-off to rest his elbow injury but insisted he would be fit to play all five matches at Le Golf National this month.
The 42-year-old Swede said: “I can’t do 40 pull-ups at the moment, but I probably couldn’t do them before the elbow problem. I’m in pretty good shape.
“I’m working hard on my physique and working hard at my golf game.”