The Caddie Network has provided an interesting take on Europe's Ryder Cup imbalance over the past few events.
When it comes to Ryder Cup week, we can't help but feel excited. The pairings are announced, the press-conferences take place and the anticipation only grows for the event itself.
Looking back on the last ten iterations, the European contingent have won seven tournaments in comparison to three for the U.S. Is there a reason for this?
Over on The Caddie Network, they've been asking those in the know on why this is the case. The caddies questioned remained anonymous in sharing their knowledge.
One of the first reasons is "lack of ego" which is an interesting take. Another says "the hiding of players who are struggling" which could be interpreted as a lack of accountability or leadership.
An overwhelming majority of respondents noted the team chemistry of the European side. "The team unity is so much better on the European side," one says.
Going back to the 1999 Ryder Cup:
US Qualifiers: 125-159-55 (44%)
US Captain's Picks: 39-44-18 (47%)
European Qualifiers: 156-132-60 (54%)
European Picks: 47-32-13 (59.5%)— No Laying Up (@NoLayingUp) September 17, 2021
"Team chemistry and unity. They just care more," one caddy added. "They want it more. They have a better team bond. It means more to them; they cry when they win!".
One caddy said: "That team chemistry angle is bullshit. Both teams have a great time." Wonder which side of the pond they have been involved with.
The same caddy says it's all down to putting. Another reckons the Europeans "play as a team like their favourite soccer teams". Shane Lowry might be peeved at not getting a GAA reference in somewhere.
While most of the answers are short, one gives an interesting take. "Politics. I think the rest of the world looks at USA as a joke," they say.
"It means more to them than the Americans." Finally, one caddy reckons the camaraderie theme is overplayed and could just be down to form.
"I think it’s just a snapshot in time and if America wins the next four Ryder Cups it’s not going to mean Europe all the sudden lost that camaraderie."
It'll be interesting to see if Team Europe can champion the 'underdog' status that the oddsmakers have them down as.
See Also: 10 Years On, Remembering Graeme McDowell And The Greatest Video Ever Made
