My year on (and off) the golf course in 2008 was frustrating. After playing in the pro-am at the MasterCard Championship, I knew there were serious problems with my right knee. I had already gone through three arthroscopic procedures on my right knee over the past six years and knew what was coming. After struggling through those first five events of the year, I underwent a total right knee replacement on March 31.
After recovering from my knee replacement, I played three events over the summer until, in mid-August, I suffered a pinched nerve in my lower back. This virtually ended my year as I was ordered by my doctors from the Laser Spine Institute to end tournament play and only compete in the ADT Skills Challenge in Miami in November. I will be continuing with my rest, rehab and overall strengthening and conditioning in preparation for the 2009 season.
Having so much time off this fall allowed me to watch every shot of the Ryder Cup a few months ago. I was very happy and excited to see the USA pull off such an inspiring victory at Valhalla Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky. We saw USA team captain Paul Azinger orchestrate a thoughtful strategy for the victory, local boys JB Holmes and Kenny Perry inspire their hometown fans and newcomers Anthony Kim and Hunter Mahan become leaders on and off the golf course. This USA victory came at a time when the hearts and capabilities of American golfers were being questioned. I think those questions were answered.
In my opinion, The Ryder Cup should always be more about the camaraderie and spirit of the game rather than who wins and who loses. After all, players from both the USA and Europe play together on the PGA TOUR more frequently than ever before in the history of professional golf. It was fantastic to see such great golf played in the proper spirit while keeping it all in perspective. I think we have both Paul Azinger and European captain Nick Faldo to thank for that. This USA victory is good for golf in America and in Europe and will only help to inspire players from both sides of the Atlantic.
At least that's my take...what's yours?