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28 March 2024

Monty awed by 'Iron Man' Lee

Europe Team captain Colin Montgomerie looks on with Lee Westwood during the foursomes matches at the Celtic Manor Resort. (GETTY)

Published
By AFP
Colin Montgomerie hailed Lee Westwood after the world number three led from the front as Europe fought back in the Ryder Cup here on Saturday.
The 37-year-old Englishman, a veteran of four winning Ryder Cup campaigns, added to his superb record on Saturday by picking up another victory in the fourballs before having to settle for a half in the foursomes.
But Westwood was on fire in the third session as he raced into a four up lead with Luke Donald in their match with Steve Stricker and Tiger Woods.
Westwood has been Europe’s best performer over the opening two days by some distance, a distinction made all the more remarkable by the fact that he is playing for the first time since returning from a six-week injury layoff.
Montgomerie said Westwood, who is expected to move up to world number two when the next rankings are released, was the Europe team’s talisman.
“Quite simply, Lee Westwood is my top ranked player and has proved it. Simple as that,” Montgomerie said. “He’s been unbelievable, in the team room, in the locker room, on the range, on the course, some of the shots he hits.
“He’s my best ranked player, and has proved it so far.”
European players Graeme McDowell and Padraig Harrington said Westwood could be the difference between winning and losing.
“The guy takes six weeks off, barely hits a ball, comes here and is hands down our best player this week,” McDowell said.
“Without him this week, we would be in trouble. The US are putting up a phenomenal display themselves, and without guys like Lee we would be in big trouble right now. Fair play to Lee. He’s our No. 1 player for a reason.
Harrington added: “He’s a great player for us to lead out. He’s proven it so far in his first three matches. Our players have trusted in Lee being out in front.”
Englishman Ian Poulter described Westwood as Europe’s “Iron Man.”
“He always delivers points. He always plays five times and I know he wanted to be fit to come out strong this week.
“You know what, we are only going to go four times but he’s fit and raring to go, and he’s playing some great golf,” Poulter said.
Westwood meanwhile modestly acknowledged the praise of his team-mates and captain. “I don’t know whether I’m the backbone,” he said.
“The strength of this European Team I think is it’s strength in depth, more than one man but I’m quite willing to stand up there and lead if anybody needs to be led.”