Tiger WoodsMATT SULLIVAN
Corey Pavin says Tiger Woods will be part of the U.S. Ryder Cup team, either as an automatic qualifier or as a wild card pick.
Pavin tells the Golf Channel that he will exercise one of his four coach's picks on Woods because, "he's the best player in the world."
Earlier Tuesday, after being evasive a week ago, Woods was unequivocal when asked if he would accept an invitation to be part of the Ryder Cup team if he did not qualify outright.
"Yes," he replied. "Hopefully I won't be a pick. I would like to be able to play myself onto that team."
Woods also indicated during his news conference that he had not yet spoken with Pavin about the Ryder Cup possibilities.
The PGA Championship marks the final weekend U.S. players have to lock up an automatic spot on the team. Only the top eight are guaranteed a spot with everyone else waiting until September 7 before learning who Pavin will add with his wild card picks.
Two years ago, Woods missed the Ryder Cup when it was held in Kentucky due to a knee injury. The Americans defeated the Europeans to regain the Cup.