Kaymer gets big match atmosphere

Published on Thursday 18 September 2008 23:08

GERMANY'S Martin Kaymer, who narrowly missed out on qualifying for the European team, was yesterday still soaking up the Ryder Cup atmosphere at Valhalla.

Kaymer, winner in Abu Dhabi and Munich this year, finished 11th in the qualifying table, just 36,000 outside the top-ten finish which would have secured his cup debut.

However, Kaymer was invited by captain Nick Faldo, along with Nick Dougherty and Ross Fisher, to travel to Kentucky to gain some experience with an eye on future cup appearances.

Dougherty and Fisher turned down the invitation but Kaymer, Europe's first reserve until play gets under way today, travelled to Valhalla and was out on the course yesterday watching Henrik Stenson, Paul Casey, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Graeme McDowell in practice.

"I got the invite a couple of weeks ago and I was happy to come," said Kaymer. "I'm enjoying every minute and it's been an amazing experience so far."