Ian Poulter's Ryder Cup hopes in doubt after foot injury

"Right now, rest and rehab take priority in me returning to full strength."

Ian Poulter's Ryder Cup hopes in doubt after foot injury

Ian Poulter is expected to miss the next four months of the season due to a foot injury, effectively ending his chances of qualifying automatically for the Ryder Cup.

Poulter is currently 42nd on the European Points list, but could still feature at Hazeltine as one of European captain Darren Clarke's five vice-captains.

Clarke appointed Thomas Bjorn, Paul Lawrie and Padraig Harrington last week, with Poulter, Lee Westwood and Jose Maria Olazabal understood to be in contention for the remaining places.

"I am obviously disappointed to be in this situation, especially during a Ryder Cup year," Poulter said in a statement. "Right now, rest and rehab take priority in me returning to full strength later this season. I look forward to resuming a full schedule as soon as I am able."

Poulter's doctor, Ara Suppiah, added: "Ian has been hampered by an arthritic joint in his right foot for the best part of two and a half years.

"The condition has progressed rapidly over the last year warranting numerous cortisone shots (within therapeutic limits) to allow him to play. Unfortunately, he continues to be in pain whilst walking and practicing.

"Further cortisone shots run the real risk of thinning the bones (osteopenia) and stress fractures, which might require treatment in a cast and significant time away from the game.

"We feel that the best option at this stage is to take some time off to allow complete recovery and rehabilitation (including customised orthotics and modification of footwear) of his foot. This will give him the best chance of returning to the game sooner and preventing further deterioration of the affected joint."

more courts articles

Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother
Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van
Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman

More in this section

OFX Irish Legends Media Day Paul McGinley wants to address Irish Senior Open regret
The 2016 Ryder Cup Matches - Day 1 - Afternoon Fourball Matches Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's virtual golf league to launch in January
2023 Ryder Cup – Singles Matches 'Drunken lunch' led to Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry teaming up for New Orleans
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up

Ireland's Top 10 Hidden Gems

Ten of the best golf courses in Ireland that too few people know about.

Read Here
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited