Skip to content

Ryder Cup preparation is tough, says Europe's Lee Westwood

Lee Westwood during the third round of the 2016 PGA Championship at Baltusrol
Image: Lee Westwood says preparing for major competitions is difficult

Lee Westwood says Europe's golfers must find the right balance of practice and rest as they prepare for the start of the Ryder Cup later this month.

Europe are aiming at Hazeltine National to claim their fourth consecutive victory and Westwood, speaking from the Italian Open in Monza, says it is difficult for players to judge how much golf to play in the run up to a major competition.

Three months' half-price Sky Sports
Three months' half-price Sky Sports

Watch the Premier League, Ryder Cup and the EFL Cup

"That's the problem that all professional golfers find with all big tournaments," said the 43-year-old.

"Whether it be major championships or Ryder Cups or whatever - you make your priorities.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Are you #RyderRED or #RyderBLUE? Watch the Ryder Cup live on Sky Sports from September 30

"It's just getting that fine line between not being tired when you go into a big event and being sharp at the same time.

"Everybody has a different way of doing it, you just have to find out what that is over the years. I've been out here for over 23 years and I still don't know what it is for me.

VIRGINIA WATER, ENGLAND - MAY 27: Europe Ryder Cup Captain Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland talks after announcing his vice-captains Paul Lawrie of Scotla
Image: Darren Clarke has included six rookies in his team for Hazeltine

"It's difficult to put your finger on it and pinpoint how you go into a tournament in your best condition and playing your best."

Also See:

Europe have named a relatively inexperienced team to take on the United States in Minnesota, with six rookies included in Darren Clarke's side.

Sky Sports Ryder Cup channel
Sky Sports Ryder Cup channel

Sky Sports will launch a devoted Ryder Cup channel

Westwood, meanwhile, is preparing to compete in his tenth Ryder Cup and expects to be paired with a younger member of the team when it comes to the foursomes.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

A look back at some of the most iconic moments from golf's greatest team event, the Ryder Cup

"Myself and Darren have spoken about it and I guess, [with him] picking me and stating my experience, he's thinking of putting me with a rookie.

"But other than that I'm not divulging too much."

Watch the Ryder Cup from September 30-October 2 live on Sky Sports - your home of golf.

Watch Chelsea v Liverpool, the Ryder Cup and all the Premier League and EFL Cup as part of our three months' half-price offer.

Sky Data Layer Viewer