Scott's Career Might Hinge on Captain's Pick

by Adam Fonseca on Oct 8, 2009 3:53 PM EDT

As the Presidents Cup gets underway today, all eyes in the golf world will undoubtedly be on the featured group of Woods/Stricker vs. Ogilvy/Ishikawa. Perhaps, however, the biggest story waiting to happen will revolve around Greg Norman's other captain pick: Adam Scott.

Following a season that saw the young Scott fall from #3 in the world golf ranking to #65, Norman's sudden bode of confidence in the fallen star surprised many in the golf world. However, as this year's LPGA Solheim Cup showed us earlier this season, redemption in one's game can be found in team-play format. (Just ask Michelle Wie.)

Wie's impressive showing as a member of the American team at the Solheim was undoubtedly the highlight of her very young career, and the support she received from her teammates was unquestionably a heavy contributor to her success. This week's Presidents Cup could prove to be just as helpful to Adam Scott if his International teammates circle their wagons around this talented, yet struggling golf star.

When asked about his decision to bring Scott to the Presidents Cup, Norman echoed the above: "Sometimes, to me, a shot of confidence in the arm of an individual, just like giving him a spot, is what is necessary to turn him around," Norman said. "He's playing well, he's excited about being here, and he doesn't feel like there's any extra pressure on him" (PGATOUR.com, 2009).

Only time will tell if the decision to include Scott on the International team is wise for Norman, but perhaps a Cup win is only secondary to a possible rejuvenation of the game of a golf superstar.

FanPosts are written by Waggle Room members. Viewpoints expressed do not necessarily reflect those of WaggleRoom.com, editor, Charles Boyer or any other writer or member.

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It’s an interesting thought. I had a similar conversation with a friend after the Solheim Cup and Wie’s excellent play. My caution was to not get overly excited and start going crazy with the “look out – Wie’s going to take over the LPGA now – she can’t be beat.” When she teed it up the next tournament, she couldn’t make putts or chips, her driving was all over the places. I collected my winnings and reminded him that professional tournament golf is not the same as a team match play situation. The same ladies who were her BFF’s and whooping it up with Wie one week were ready to rip her throat out on the course the next. There was nobody to lean on but herself – and it showed.

Adam Scott could be a completely different beast because he has had success on tours around the world. A shot of confidence and a few pats on the back could actually do him some good. He has played on teams before with all the good feelings that go with it – then felt the cold shoulder from the locker next door the following week.

"this ball will fit in that fairway"

by courtgolf on Oct 8, 2009 4:12 PM EDT reply actions