Colin Montgomerie was at the New South Wales Golf Club in Australia to attend the BMW Golf Cup International World Final 2014 which was dubbed the ‘Showdown Under’ earlier this month.
In a very hot and windy afternoon, the Scot talked about his Ryder Cup glory, his experience in Thailand and, of course, football.
Krisdin: First of all, Leeds United or Glasgow Rangers?
Montgomerie: Leeds United. Definitely Leeds United.
So you stick with a team from the area where you grew up and not one from your birthplace?
Yes. I grew up in Leeds. For me, football is Leeds United. Always have supported and always will support Leeds United.
It must be difficult for you to see your team go from Champions League to Championship [England’s second tier] football.
Of course. We used to have a very good team. Unfortunately, football business is getting more and more expensive. Today you need money in order to be success in every sports especially football.
You have visited and played in Thailand many times. What comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘Thailand’?
Friendly people, good weather and great food [rubbing his stomach]. And believe it or not I watched more live English football matches on Thai TV when I was there than I pick up at home. This makes Thailand perfect for me on and off the course. I love it.
We [the Thai government] are working
very hard to make Thailand ‘Asia’s top golf destination’. From your point of view, what need to be improved to reach the goal?
It’s a good decision. Your country has all advantages. You name it — location, quality of courses, golf weather year round and service is second to none. You also have good players. It helps motivate young golfers to play.
What is your advice for Thai young golfers who want to follow in the footsteps of Thongchai Jaidee?
Keep working hard. Thongchai is a good example of doing that. Nowadays, the door is wide open for any players from anywhere in the world. In my time, I would say only 10-20 players could win a golf tournament. Today, we see more and more new winners.
Which is the most nervous shot you have ever played?
That’s easy. First Ryder Cup, first tee, first shot. It’s completely different feeling when you plays for your team. I believe most Ryder Cup golfers felt the same way when they hit that shot.
You have played for Europe on eight occasions and never lost in singles matches. What’s your secret?
The first rule is don’t give the hole away. You cannot control your opponent but you certainly can control your game. If your opponent shot 12 birdies, he earned it. Don’t bogey a hole so your opponent can win with a par. By saying this, of course, in match play you do need some luck. We all have seen players lose a hole with a birdie and won with a bogey. That’s the beauty of match play golf.
Which is your most memorable Ryder Cup victory?
Every point, every victory you won for your team was important. But to captain the winning team in the 2010 Ryder Cup was very special. I would rate it as the greatest moment of my golfing career.
The US has named Davis Love III to captain the team for a second time. Would you consider another stint as captain of Europe?
Not now. Why go back [a big smile]? The Americans are quite good. I’m very happy with my winning memory [another big smile]. Seriously, it’s about giving a chance for others to lead. I strongly believe we have many great players who can become great captains for Europe.
So Darren Clark is the right choice for Europe in 2016?
Why not? Darren is very unique. His personality is perfect fit for the leading role with a major win. Fantastic.
The Americans have won only once in the last eight meetings? Do you have any advice for them?
Nope [another big smile]. Obviously they can’t keep losing. They have good young players. Defending the Cup at Hazeltine will be a tough challenge for us.
You have travelled around the world for years. Which are your top-10 golf courses?
Oh, Gosh! From here [in Australia], let start with Kingston Links in Melbourne. New South Wales Golf Club here is up there. On the coast of California I love Cypress and Pebble Beach. You cannot leave out Augusta and TPC Sawgrass. I also like Marion. In Europe, Loch Lomond where I got married is very beautiful. Carnoustie is the hardest one. In Spain, I always enjoy playing at Valderrama.