Ian Poulter responds when asked if he wants to be Europe’s Ryder Cup captain in future

“I don’t know of many businesses in the world that would turn a blind eye to an investment from the PIF, which are arguably the biggest investors in the world.

“In business, in sport, in everything. So to have them part of the ecosystem of golf is good – some people will say it’s been bad for the fans because it’s a split product.

“But in the bigger picture, like they have invested in to tennis and boxing, it has been better. They want to help sport and make things better for the fans eventually. So the turmoil is there.

“Yes, I have sacrificed being a Ryder Cup captain for now. Does that change? I hope so. Can I see it changing in the next couple of years? No. Luke is doing it again.

“He has a great rapport with the team and by Luke doing three, it is definitely stopping some of the players that were always earmarked to be Ryder Cup captains. It’s definitely stopping them.

“It’s what they want and I will always stand here today, and if I never have any more involvement with the Ryder Cup, I’ve had a good time!

“Amazing stories, amazing Ryder Cups. I was proud to put the shirt on, I have helped them grow their business and their brand.

“I have helped them make millions and millions and millions of dollars by playing the Ryder Cup, to help the Ryder Cup and the European Tour. I am proud to have helped them make that money to help make it better.

“I have loved the Ryder Cup and every aspect of it. So we will see. I would love to, but I don’t see it right now, unfortunately.”

Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images

Ian Poulter is right to predict continued Ryder Cup snub

Poulter’s presence on LIV Golf is clearly a major stumbling block in his wishes to one day captain the European Ryder Cup team, which is a situation that seemingly won’t change for some time.

And the same can be said for his fellow icons of the prestigious event, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia, who are also playing on LIV Golf.

Such a situation was made clear when Henrik Stenson was removed from his role as captain for the 2023 Ryder Cup ahead of his switch to the Saudi-backed tour, from which he has since been relegated.

But also key to the current situation has been the success of Donald, who has done a phenomenal job and fully deserves to stay in the role.

There is, however, no denying Poulter’s fantastic record as a Ryder Cup player, which involves five wins and two losses from his seven appearances.

He’s claimed 16 points for his side, and boasts a 15-8-2 record, including an unbeaten 6-0-1 record in singles.

Read more:

Ian Poulter states how long he wants to play on LIV Golf for as he outlines his future plans

Luke Donald has already given Europe a massive advantage ahead of the next Ryder Cup

Brandel Chamblee states who should be the next US Ryder Cup captain