TIGER Woods has cast doubt over his participation in October’s Ryder Cup after slumping to his worst finish as a professional.
The 34-year-old shot a final-round 77 on Sunday to finish 18-over in second-last position at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, with only Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, suffering from illness, posting a higher total. Woods currently sits 10th in the United States Ryder Cup list and needs to rise into the top eight after this week’s US PGA Championships, the final Major of the year, if he is to be granted an automatic pick.
If he fails to improve his ranking, Woods will have to rely on receiving one of four wildcard picks handed out by US captain Corey Pavin.
But the 14-time major winner, who has previously failed to replicate his best form at the Ryder Cup, has admitted Pavin may be better off looking elsewhere.
“I wouldn’t help the team if I’m playing like this. No-one would help the team if they’re shooting 18 over par,” said Woods.
“I think I can turn it around. We have lots of time between now and then.
“I didn’t drive it at all this week. My irons weren’t very good again, and I made no putts. I need to hit the ball better, I need to putt better, and I need to score better.”