Ryder Cup - Azinger: Format change is key
Eurosport - Tue, 23 Sep 16:59:00 2008
US captain Paul Azinger is betting that switching to a foursomes start to the Ryder Cup will give the Americans an early edge over Europe.
While fourballs have opened the last three Ryder Cups, all won by Europe, Azinger has opted for foursomes or alternate shot to begin the contest at the Valhalla Golf Club.
The US have fared slightly better in the alternate shot format than fourball and will try to establish a lead by the end of the day for the first time since 1993 at the Belfry.
The last time the Ryder Cup began with foursomes was at Brookline in 1999, when the U.S. last claimed the trophy.
"If you're behind every morning for six straight Ryder Cups, or every day the first day for six straight Ryder Cups... then, of course, you're going to make some changes," said Azinger.
"If you're the team that's doing all of the getting ahead, then you're going to stick with what's been working.
"So it's no different than the NFL teams who play each other twice in the season. You lose the first game, the team that wins does everything the same and the team that loses makes the necessary adjustments to try to get it right."
However, Azinger's gamble does not come without risks.
Spaniard Sergio Garcia is a master of the alternate format, posting a Ryder Cup record of 8-0, while the famous European team chemistry would also lend itself to foursomes.
Some of Azinger's men will also be getting their first taste of alternate shot play at Valhalla.
The pairings for foursomes are viewed as crucial, with the captains matching players' styles and strengths.
"I think it's hard to get into a rhythm," Ben Curtis said of the alternate shot format as he prepared to face his European opponents.
"I could see where that could be an issue because you hit one drive and then you may not hit until the second shot on the next hole. You could go a half hour without swinging a golf club.
"Putting-wise, you could go 10 holes without having a meaningful putt. Then, all of a sudden, you've got a 15-footer to win or tie a hole."
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Comment 1 - 2 of 2
Have a feeling this Ryder Cup is going to be very tight and wouldnt be surprised if it as drawn in the end. Interesting that the USPGA have decided to shorten the course by 500 yards. Still one of the great sporting contests when 24 great individuals get together to form 2 teams and battle it out. Fantastic spectical. May the best team win!
I have an awful feeling that putting will prove to be the most important aspect of the golf game at Valhalla. On home soil the US will be difficult to beat this time round. Much will depend upon the foursomes and, if the Europeans can half these games, then we might have a chance. I just hope that Faldo proves to be a good motivator
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