Tom Watson will become the oldest captain in the history of the Ryder Cup, when he leads the US team in 2014 at Gleneagles at the age of 65. He surpasses the record held by John Henry Taylor who led the Great British team back in 1933 and is the first repeat US captain since Jack Nicklaus led the team in 1987.
Is the decision one of desperation or one of pure genius? He last led the team in 1993, bringing victory over Europe and that was the last time the US secured victory on European soil. He is also no stranger to to winning in Scotland, winning 4 of his 5 British Open titles on Scottish courses. David Toms was the early favourite for the role, but have the US PGA pulled off a masterstoke? What hapens if he fails to win back the Ryder Cup? Where do they go next?
In our mind this is certainly a bold decision that has got a lot of tongues wagging. He has already received a lot of support from his fellow professionals and he could be just the man to bring an air of calm and experience to the US camp.
Europe on the other hand are enjoying a great period of success in the 20 years having only lost twice since Watson's victory in 1993. with the emergence of some great talent within Europe the US will undoubtedly face another tough task. But the question now on everybody's mind is who will lead the European team. One of the names currently being touted is Paul McGinley, who has already received public support from Rory McIlroy. However, in light of Watson's announcement some are now calling for a big name to also be appointed to lead the European contingent and as such the name on everyone's lips is Darren Clarke.
What do you think? Will Watson turn it around for the US? Who should Europe opt for?
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