Woodland targets Ryder debut
American chasing Medinah debut after World Cup victory
Last Updated: November 29, 2011 11:21am
Gary Woodland: Looking to secure a Ryder Cup debut at Medinah in 2012
Gary Woodland admits he has now got his sights firmly focused on a Ryder Cup debut at Medinah next year following his World Cup victory alongside Matt Kuchar.
The 27-year-old from Kansas joined forces with Kuchar in China to secure America a two-shot victory over England and Germany - their 24th success in the event.
Woodland is hoping his performance will have caught the eye of US Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III who will lead his country against Europe in Chicago in 2012.
"I hope Davis has taken some notes because I hope I've proved I can handle myself capably in a team format," Woodland declared.
Dream
"The Ryder Cup has always been a huge goal of mine and that goal is now much more important after Matt and I won the World Cup.
"Ever since I turned professional I have dreamt about being in a US Ryder Cup team and it now seems a big step closer.
"
Gary Woodland Quotes of the week
"Ever since I turned professional I have dreamt about being in a US Ryder Cup team and it now seems a big step closer.
"I had the goal at the start of the year to make the Presidents Cup. That didn't pan out but then Matt chose me to partner him in the World Cup and I could not have been happier.
"Europe has kind of had the States's number in most of the recent Ryder Cups but it would be nice to be in the team that win back the trophy on home turf.
"It's been a long while since the States had the Ryder Cup, World Cup and Presidents Cup in the same trophy cabinet but for me winning the World Cup is going to be a big inspiration to make the Ryder Cup team."
Praise for Kuchar
Woodland was also quick to heap praise on Kuchar who, he insisted, had been the ideal companion during their time together in China.
"I've learned so much from playing alongside Matt and that's going to be a great springboard for me to take into 2012," he continued. "He was always very positive, very encouraging and always very helpful in putting me at ease.
"It (the win) helps my confidence and it further boosts Matt's confidence given that he was also on the winning Presidents Cup side the week before.
"Hopefully both he and I can play well enough in 2012 to make Davis's side. I grew up watching the Ryder Cup and it would be an honour for me to play."
