The build-up to the 2025 Ryder Cup is on, and Justin Rose has been discussing whether Ian Poulter could ever return to the European team.
Poulter has one of the best Ryder Cup records of all time, winning 15 matches and amassing 16 points during his career.
However, since his much-maligned move to LIV Golf, the 48-year-old’s future Ryder Cup aspirations are well and truly in doubt.
Rose has now been discussing whether his former teammate could ever become European captain, which is a long-term dream for Poulter.
Justin Rose reacts to Ian Poulter’s Ryder Cup comments
Poulter recently claimed he’s “hopeful” of one day becoming Ryder Cup captain. Rose, speaking before the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, can envisage a world where a route emerges for Poulter to return.
Rose said: “I mean, I think we need things to accelerate quickly. Obviously, the lads who have gone off to LIV — there was a period of time now where obviously we’re seeing scenarios with Tyrrell and Jon having gone, as well, but they’re still very much current in terms of form of playing in the Ryder Cup, and I know there’s a few outstanding I’s to be dotted and T’s to be crossed for them to be eligible, but I think the sentiment in the team is we want the best players playing.
“I think if that’s the sentiment, then of course the same would be extended into the captaincy role, I’d imagine, or theoretically anyway.
“But I think the world of golf does need to start resolving itself quickly because there is still a little bit of a divide, us, them, LIV. I think it’s hard to make those admissions back into the fray unless we’re all on the same path pretty quickly. I don’t know if that answers the question at all.”
The former US Open winner added: “I think for that to happen for Poults, I can definitely see that pathway, but I think the world of golf needs to make it happen, as well, for him. I think it’s hard to just step straight in if everything else is a bit kind of targeted on the fringes. That would be my sense.”
Ryder Cup pathways open up for LIV Golf stars
For Poulter, the equation feels pretty straightforward: settle up with the DP World Tour, and future Ryder Cup opportunities could emerge.
Jon Rahm lodged a last-minute appeal to keep his 2025 Ryder Cup hopes alive. Rahm’s fines total $1 million and must be paid if he’s to ensure his DP World Tour membership remains intact.
Clearly, the DP World Tour is providing a route back for LIV Golf players, and as Rose mentions, something similar could happen for Poulter.
Despite the Englishman’s popularity taking a hit in recent years, there’s no doubt Poulter deserves the chance to become the European Ryder Cup captain. There are very few who have dedicated more to golf’s biggest team event.
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