Azinger Saved the Ryder Cup

Posted by Alan L. Hammond Sep 23, 2008

But, taking the reigns as he did brought the Cup back the the US, and popularity of the event to a new high level.

Controversial Captain's picks, revamping the qualification criteria, setting up the course to his team's strengths, putting the players into small groups that held together all week, all combined for the win and an exciting tournament.

Possibly the most controversial pick was Kentuckian J.B. Holmes, who turned out to be one of the stars. He's a great player, but his play rose to a new level in front of his fellow Kentuckians. Boo Weekley is the next Sam Snead, and should take over the fan-favorite role from John Daly. Anthony Kim proved himself to be a superior talent.

In short, it was great to see the Americans seem to want to be there for a change. After years of controversy over their lack of a team concept, which is one reason the Euros have been handing them their heads for a decade, the turnaround was fantastic.

Coming together for each other, their country and their captain was a sight to be seen, on both sides.

Long live the Ryder Cup!