Lee Westwood has stated he has "no regrets" about turning down the chance to captain Team Europe at the 2023 Ryder Cup to join LIV Golf. The former world number one revealed he remains unemployed and that LIV 2.0 has not presented him with "anything agreeable" for a proposed 2027 relaunch. Westwood, 53, represented Europe at the Ryder Cup 11 times, tying Sir Nick Faldo for most appearances at Whistling Straits in 2021.
He served as vice-captain under Thomas Bjorn at the 2018 Ryder Cup in France. The DP World Tour rules prevent players from captaining Europe if they decline tour membership. Henrik Stenson was eventually appointed captain for 2023 before joining LIV Golf, with the role passing to Luke Donald.
Westwood insists his priority has always been playing, stating he loves competition and the autonomy golf provides, where "the buck stops with me." He admits he is unsure if he would have been a good captain, citing his reluctance to rely on others and his preference for personal control over team dynamics.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing