Tired Montgomerie gives Switzerland a miss

Published on Monday 31 August 2009 00:22

COLIN Montgomerie, the European captain, will watch the start of the race for places on next year's Ryder Cup on television after withdrawing from this week's Omega European Masters in Switzerland.

"It's been a demanding three-week spell recently with travel to the United States and the Netherlands and now here at Gleneagles in my role as championship chairman. I feel I need a week to re-charge my batteries," said Montgomerie after completing his final round of the Johnnie Walker Championship.

"I have been watching more golf recently than I have ever done and that will continue to be the case this week when I will avidly tune in to all the coverage of the Omega European Masters as the race for Ryder Cup points kicks off.

"As I said earlier in the week, I wish everyone attempting to earn a place in my team for Celtic Manor next year the very best of luck."

Montgomerie is delighted that the race is about to get under way, but joked: "If anyone mentions the word 'Ryder' to me the day after the match finishes, I will shoot them."

The Scot finished joint 31st on one-under at Gleneagles after ending his tournament with three birdies for a 71. While not unhappy with his performance, he remains less than satisfied by his overall form.

"There have been some plus points but some negatives as well," he reflected. "I'm still having difficulty driving and lost three balls this week, which is simply not good enough."