"Ryder Cup is important to Tiger Woods," said USA captain

• Golf

The captain of the USA team at the Ryder Cup, Zach Johnson, talked about this year competion in Rome, Italy. He told: "The commitment to Federgolf, Italy and Marco Simone is enormous, but this event represents an extraordinary driving force.

The five days I spent in Rome last autumn, during the Year to Go celebrations, they have been incredible in promoting golf and showcasing a beautiful country like Italy. And at the end of September I am sure Ryder will be a real commercial for Italy.

unites and golf is no exception. Respect for the opponent, integrity, character, are just some of the intrinsic characteristics of Ryder. Both teams will compete to honor their country and their teams. All these are elements that can certainly bring hope.

The whole American team before Ryder will be at the Marco Simone Golf Club for a common training. It won't be easy but the fact that we have been left empty-handed on European soil for all this time certainly represents a motivation and an important opportunity My team will boast a mix of talent and experience, the latter factor never negative but certainly not the most important.I want to build an excellent group, beyond the pitch." Johnson, in the same interview with the Italian news agency ANSA opened the event which will be held from 29 September to 1 October 2023 in the Italian capital.

Focusing on the future of Tiger Woods. He said: "For Tiger Woods the Ryder Cup is extremely important. I don't know yet what his involvement will be for the match in Rome, but he will certainly be part of our team. From afar or on site, his insights, experience, wisdom are invaluable.

It won't be easy but the fact that we have remained empty-handed on European soil for all this time certainly represents an important motivation and opportunity. My team will boast a mix of talent and experience, the latter factor never negative but certainly not the most important. I want to build a great group, beyond the pitch."