Faldo: Ryder Cup warning
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Nick Faldo has warned his European Ryder Cup hopefuls that no-one can rest on their laurels as the battle to qualify reaches its climax.
Although players such as Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia, Graeme McDowell, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Robert Karlsson all look set to feature against America at Valhalla in Kentucky in September, Faldo has warned against complacency.
Should the top five all remain in place, seven places would still be up for grabs, including two picks for captain Faldo.
Still with two majors and one World Golf Championship event to take place before the August 31 cut-off date for qualification, the standings could yet change dramatically.
"We all know in golf as soon as you start counting your chickens you get a swift kick up the backside so there will be no complacency," said six-time major winner Faldo.
"The team is shaping up, we are already above expectations in terms of qualifying and they will all be playing hard for the next six weeks.
"My picks may not be decided until right up to the close of play as guys who are winning are a very important part of the Ryder Cup."
Major hope
With world number one Tiger Woods out for the rest of the season after knee surgery, Faldo says it is the perfect opportunity for one of his men to capture a major title, starting at this week's Open.
"The next bunch of guys must start looking round and when Tiger is off they have to say who is going to make the most of the opportunity?" Faldo added.
"The best ability a player can have is when he can make it happen and I think they have a great opportunity for the next three majors."
And Faldo stressed no one should be resting on their laurels ahead of him making his final decisions after the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles on August 31.
Faldo expects Garcia to overcome his disappointment of losing a play-off to Padraig Harrington at last year's Open at Carnoustie and could be the one to watch at Birkdale.
Whilst at the tournament, Faldo will also use the chance to meet-up with some of his expected Ryder Cup players, and those hoping to make the grade.
"I think Sergio will be inspired by his good friend Rafael Nadal," Faldo told an event with sponsors TaylorMade.
"He just missed out on beating Roger Federer (in the Wimbledon final) last year and we know Sergio missed out last year.
"I thought this would be a great opportunity to check out some of the guys, have a chat with some of my 'guaranteeds' and have a chat with some others, like Ross Fisher who I have never met."
