The Official Site of Hunter Mahan

Updates

Tue, Sep 2nd 2008, 09:31

Hunter named to Ryder Cup Team

US Ryder Cup Team Captain Paul Azinger selected Hunter Mahan, J.B. Holmes, Steve Stricker, and Chad Campbell Tuesday to complete the 12-player roster for the 2008 United States Ryder Cup Team. The foursome of Americans, three of whom are making their Ryder Cup debuts, join eight players who had previously earned automatic berths following the PGA Championship.

The US team will go up against against Europe, Sept. 19-21, in the 37th Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky.

“The last two years have been amazing,” said Azinger, who is the 25th U.S. Ryder Cup Captain. “I said all along we needed to change the selection process. I like who the top eight players turned out to be.”

Azinger also seemed to be happy with the options available with the captain’s picks. Hunter Mahan, Azinger said, “is a young lion, a terrific ball-striker . . he has a lot of heart and he’s going to add a lot to the team.”

Hunter’s enthusiasm at being selected was difficult to hide. “This is the best feeling in the world. I wish it would start tomorrow. I’m so grateful that Captain Azinger has given me this opportunity, and I’m looking forward to starting it up. I’m looking forward to every minute, every second of it, and I’m going to enjoy every second of it.”

While Hunter’s spot on the team wasn’t certain, he was hopeful to receive a call from Azinger, as he had dreamed about making the Ryder Cup Team since he was a young boy.

“When I talked to Captain Azinger a couple weeks ago, we had a great chat, and I think he knew when I said my true feelings at heart,” Said Hunter. “He knew how much I wanted to make the team, and so I felt like I was on his radar; and if I could just play well the last few weeks, I would get the nod. But I felt a lot of support from a lot of players and different media and stuff. So I felt like I still had a chance. I didn’t feel like I knocked myself out of it. I still have to keep playing golf and try to make it like I say, I wanted to be on the team and I wanted to contribute, so definitely very grateful for this opportunity.”

Team selection news conference transcript

More on the Ryder Cup


Yes, I’m interested in updates!

Comments

Andy Marshall | on 2/9/08

Hunter congratulations on your Ryder Cup selection you deserve it. After playing against you for several years I know you will perform spectacularly against the Europeans.

Congrats again!!!

Debbie O'Doherty | on 2/9/08

Congradulation, you realize 1 of your 2 first goal and I’m sure the other one will coming soon. Since few year, I have the chance to go at Doral Blue monster in Miami and last year, I was at Royal Montreal for the Presient cup …What a sensation for a player to feel the crowd behind you. This year, ALL the crowd will be behind you. I come from Montreal, so during the President cup, I was behind the International team but what a victory by team USA . I hope this last experience will help you in 2 weeks. Good luck, enjoy this event and be proud of you. (sorry for my english writting, I come from Montreal and my first language is French).