• US PGA Championship

Clarke's Ryder Cup chances boosted by US PGA invite

ESPN staff
July 28, 2010
Darren Clarke has returned to something approaching his best form in recent weeks © Getty Images
Enlarge

Darren Clarke has been handed the opportunity to force his way into the European Ryder Cup team in a playing capacity after receiving an invite to compete at the US PGA Championship.

The Ulsterman has been named as one of Colin Montgomerie's vice-captains ahead of the October tournament at Celtic Manor, but he has confirmed that he would compete as a player if he were to qualify.

His chances of securing a place in the all-important top nine of the points list - he currently lies 21st - have been boosted significantly by the offer of a place at the year's final Major championship, which takes place on August 9 at Whistling Straits.

"Yes I will play if I qualify," Clarke said. "I think Monty will want me to if I do. I think Thomas [Bjorn] and Paul [McGinley; the other chosen vice-captains] will too. There's no question about that.

"If I do play well in the events I have left I possibly could give him a bigger headache. We shall see. We spoke at length about it and Monty said that he wants me there one way or the other.

"Right now as it stands I'm outside the team and I'm delighted to be part of his backroom staff."

The last time the event was held at Whistling Straits, Clarke let a first-day lead slip away before eventually tumbling to a disappointing 13th-placed finish.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices