Stricker: Ryder Cup without fans could be ‘yawner’
UNITED STATES Ryder Cup captain Steve Stricker fears the event could be boring if held behind closed doors.
Europe’s defence of the trophy, led by Padraig Harrington, is scheduled to take place at Whistling Straits on September 25-27 but there has been continued uncertainty since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
Stricker suggested plans would need to be in place to proceed or postpone by the end of the month but showed his distaste for the likeliest compromise option – golf without spectators.
Speaking to Golf Affect Radio, he said: “This event is made by the fans. 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. So far we’re planning it as if it’s a go, like we’re going to have it but there’s some obstacles that we’re going to have to face.
“The confidence of the people and the corporate people, it’s going to come down to probably the safety. And who knows, right?”
Rory McIlroy has made similar comments in recent weeks, suggesting “the majority” of players would prefer to delay their involvement than go ahead in a sterile environment.
Stricker said a decision will need to be made in the coming weeks, adding: “They’re going to have to make a decision here, probably within the next two or three weeks.”
A postponement would be tough given the timing of the deferred Olympic Games and the presence of the President’s Cup next autumn.