Tiger Woods is set to play a key role in America's bid to win a first Ryder Cup in Europe since 1993, whether he attends the event or not.
Woods, aged 46, has struggled with fitness problems after breaking both legs in an horrific car crash in February last year. However, he did return to the golf circuit this year playing in the Masters and the Open Championship.
The 15-time major winner has played in eight Ryder Cup competitions during his career and was vice-captain in 2016 and 2018, but missed America's triumph last year just months after his car crash.
US Ryder Cup captain Zach Johnson says Woods is already having an influence on their preparations ahead of the competition in Rome this time next year.
"I don't know if he'll be here next year, but he'll be a part of this team in some capacity," Johnson said. "He already is practically.
"He loves the Ryder Cup. He has made it a priority. Whether it's travel or what have you, but he and I will be in constant communication. He has great ideas. He is great at encouragement, always positive.
"He is very calculated when it comes to these team events, he puts a lot of energy and effort into them, whether it's phone calls, FaceTime, or just text messages for those he hasn’t been at.
"I remember in 2016 when he was the vice captain and he fully embraced his role. I will rely upon him, and not only myself but some of the players. He's very much a part of Team USA. He is extremely passionate about the Ryder Cup, and it shows in a number of different ways."
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The USA stormed to a record 19-9 win over Europe at Wisconsin last year and also won the Presidents Cup last month against an international team not including European players. However, the American side could be weakened from that of 12 months ago if LIV Golf players are banned from playing with Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson all playing a part in their 2021 victory.
Meanwhile, Europe would be without stalwarts Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia while previous captain Henrik Stenson was stripped of his role after joining the Saudi-backed circuit.
However, Team Europe captain Luke Donald believes next year's Ryder Cup can "unify" the world of golf giving hope that LIV Golf players will receive invites.
