Ryder Cup experience standing Ian Poulter in good stead for US Open

16/06/2010

Ian Poulter has said his experience of playing in front of people with Ryder Cup corporate tickets will stand him in good stead for the US Open.

The world number eight has never played on the Pebble Beach course before, aside from on his PlayStation, but is still confident of his chances in the Major tournament.

Speaking to the Times, the Englishman pointed out that he faced a similar scenario prior to the 2008 Ryder Cup, which took place at the Valhalla course in the US.

"I should be absolutely fine," Poulter stated. "I had not seen the Ryder Cup course [at Valhalla] until the week I got there. I played 18 holes of practice and played well."

The 34-year-old is one of a number of Englishmen who is in the running to play in front of fans with Ryder Cup corporate tickets later on this year, along with Luke Donald, Paul Casey and Lee Westwood.

Colin Montgomerie, the European Ryder Cup captain, told the Mirror earlier this week that the current standard of English golf is "amazing".

Posted by Keith Prowse