It has surprised me that Tiger's record is less than brilliant in Ryder Cups, and no surprise that he prefers the President's cup, where he has been on the winning team. What is obvious, is the more relaxed and friendly atmosphere within the Europe team, and a real go for it attitude in recent years. Witness 2002, and Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia, both driving the green at short par 4 water hole at the Belfry. Tiger Woods and his partner responded by laying up with seven irons, in the hope of chipping close and making birdie, which they failed to do.
It may be that the partnership of Jim Furyk and Tiger will work at the K Club this time round. If it does, then the whole American team may be galvanised into action.
We in Britain will be relying on Bernhard Langer and Colin Montgomerie to again lay a foundation to build on.
Whatever happens, the question of money (or in this case the lack of it), being a reason for the event being less important, does not seem valid. These guys have more than enough riches - they are playing for national pride and honour, and that should still mean something.