Ian Poulter has bitten back at Rory McIlroy after he revealed he feels “betrayed” by several Ryder Cup teammates for defecting to LIV Golf.
In an open interview with The Guardian, McIlroy questioned the decision made by Poulter as well as Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia and Graeme McDowell for joining the breakaway league, claiming they have “jeopardised” their Ryder Cup careers.
But Poulter has now rebuked the claim, expressing surprise towards McIlroy’s comments before insisting he can still play for Team Europe at the Ryder Cup.
“A betrayal? We can still qualify for the team as far as I’m aware,” Poulter told press ahead of the LIV Golf Team Championship in Miami. “Unless we’ve been told we can’t qualify, then I’m still ready to play as much as I possibly can and try and make that team.”
The Englishman, who has paired with McIlroy six times to much success in the Ryder Cup, then defended his commitment further by alluding to his unparalleled “passion” in the competition,
I mean, look, my commitment to the Ryder Cup I think goes before me,” Poulter said. “I don’t think that should ever come in question. I’ve always wanted to play Ryder Cups and have played with as much passion as anyone else that I’ve ever seen play a Ryder Cup.”
Poulter has played in seven Ryder Cups and holds a record of 15-8-2.
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George Cooper
