Ryder Cup: Tiger Woods could help Team USA after ‘conversations’ with Zach Johnson, hints Europe VC Thomas Bjorn

Tiger Woods could be involved with Team USA at the Ryder Cup in some capacity this week, according to Europe vice-captain Thomas Bjorn.

The prestigious golf tournament which pits America against Europe is set to begin on Friday, with Zach Johnson’s US team heading across the pond for a shot at glory in Rome, Italy.

Johnson and Co are bidding to become the first Americans to win on European soil  since 1993, a feat that would also see the country retain the championship for the first time in as many years.

And Bjorn, who captained Europe to victory in 2018, believes their rivals may turn to golf icon Woods for some inspiration this weekend. 

‘I read reports of Zach having conversations with Tiger, but everyone in golf has a huge respect for Tiger,’ the Dane told Betway.

Zach Johnson’s team are bidding to become the first Americans to win in Europe since 1993

Bjorn believes their Ryder Cup rivals may turn to golf icon Woods for some inspiration

‘I’m sure the respect is even bigger in America. Why wouldn’t you lean on him? We’re still leaning on our great players like Monty and Ole.

‘We have those people around and use those people. You can always ask a champion because they love talking about how they did it, how they became successful and how good they are or were. Rightfully so, as they’re great stories to listen to.

‘I’m sure Zach knows that, and it wouldn’t surprise me for Tiger to be there next week in some capacity. He’s arguably the best player ever and has a lot to offer. When he talks, it’s hard not to listen.’

Woods, a 15-time major champion and one of the greatest golfers in history, has not competed at a Ryder Cup himself since 2018.

The 47-year-old has played in eight tournaments throughout his career, winning 13 matches out of 37 (13-21-3). He was part of USA’s 1999 Ryder Cup-winning team.

Though despite his legendary status and wealth of experience, as well as Bjorn’s hint, Johnson says Woods will not be making the trip to Rome. 

‘No, Tiger will not be joining us in Italy. He’s got a lot on his plate,’ he said this week.

But Johnson has confirmed Woods will not be making the trip to Rome for the tournament

‘As far as conferring with him, communicating with him, I mean, we have up to this point, and he understands that now that our feet are on the ground, it’s probably kind of best that we navigate this ourselves.

‘But he’s always on inner corner, and at this point it’s more encouragement on his side.

‘Whether he’s texting the guys or texting the vice captains and captains, he’s there to encourage because he’s very invested in what we do year-in and year-out with Team USA, and that has never ceased and I’m grateful for that.’