Tour News (posted 16th September 1998)

Faldo in a hurry for Top 10 Ryder Cup place

Versailles, France - Nick Faldo is determined to elbow his way into the top 10 and a Ryder Cup qualifying spot over the next four European tournaments.

Faldo is without a Ryder Cup point after missing the cut in the first event that counted, the European Masters two weeks ago.

The Briton rejoined the European Tour to try to win enough points to avoid having to rely on a wild-card for the Cup clash at Brookline, Boston, next year.

He will even play both tours next year in his attempt to qualify. But he wants at least to put himself firmly in the reckoning in four events left in Europe this year, the Lancome Trophy, the German Masters, Belgacom Open and Volvo Masters.

"I'd like to think I'll be in the top 10 by the time these four tournaments have been played," said Faldo.

"Obviously next year I'll play a lot less than the other guys so I have to make sure I'm up there this year."

Faldo has given himself a stiff task for a man whose game is not in shape.

European Ryder Cup table leader Colin Montgomerie has already totted up 137,960 points from the two counting events, and the 10th qualifying spot held by Germany's Alex Cejka and Scot Gordon Brand Jnr, currently commands 30,940 points.

"My target's realistic. The game's just about unravelling a few knots, and I'm taking great steps forward," added Faldo. "But I've had these faults for a couple of years, so I'm not going to unravel the knots overnight.

"I'll be there, though. I'll get it back. That's the bottom line. Just stick at it kid, is my motto."