Colin Montgomerie says senior tour holds little appeal

Published on Wednesday 13 April 2011 16:14

COLIN Montgomerie has insisted it is unlikely he will be joining the senior circuit and says the only over-50s event he is likely to consider playing in would be a Senior Open Championship at Turnberry, Troon or St Andrews.

The Scot, who will be eligible for the Senior Tour in just over three years' time, spoke about his future plans during a return yesterday to Celtic Manor, where he led Europe to a thrilling victory in last year's Ryder Cup.

"I don't think I will be playing seniors' golf," said Montgomerie as he helped launch a series of PowerPlay Golf events, the first of which will be held at the Welsh resort next month. "I would probably make an exception if there's a Senior Open at Turnberry or Troon, perhaps even St Andrews but, even then, I would warm up for that on the main Tour, for which I'm exempt until I'm 52."

Montgomerie was asked to clarify his position regarding the 2014 Ryder Cup captaincy. That followed the 47-year-old saying a month ago that he felt he didn't want to be considered for the job again before appearing to do a U-turn after Sandy Lyle said he believed his fellow Scot would get a role due to the fact he stayed so close to Gleneagles, venue for the match in three years' time.

"My stance is that I will do anything to help the European cause, just as I said before I was appointed captain for the match here," he added. "I'm a proud member of the European tour and I will be delighted to help in any way, shape or form at Gleneagles in 2014."

Montgomerie, who was joined at yesterday's launch by Paul Casey, was speaking in what was the American team room during last year's match in Newport and couldn't resist having a playful dig. "I'm delighted that there's finally been some success in it," he joked.