Monty backs McIlroy's decision
Friday, 13 November 2009 08:22Colin Montgomerie has backed Rory McIlroy's decision to take up a full US PGA Tour card next season ahead of an expected Ryder Cup debut at Celtic Manor.
World number 17 McIlroy confirmed the move on Tuesday prior to this week's UBS Hong Kong Open and will spilt just his third full season as a professional across the Atlantic.
McIlroy only broke into the world's top 50 at the end of last year before winning his maiden title in Dubai in February, but is seen by many including Ryder Cup captain Montgomerie as a certainty to qualify to face the Corey Pavin led USA in October.
'I think it's a good move. I think his game suits America. His game suits it and I think he will do very well,' said five-time Ryder Cup winner Montgomerie.
'He has no ties and why not, he should do what he wants to do, so best of luck to him.
'I think it can only help his chances of making the Ryder Cup team.'
Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia, Paul Casey, Justin Rose and Ian Poulter all currently play duel schedules and were in Nick Faldo's team for the defeat at Valhalla last year.
McIlroy is currently ranked fourth on the Ryder Cup world points list, while the Holywood ace is also in contention for the Race to Dubai with just two events remaining.
'He will have more world ranking points to play for. He will find it difficult to get in the team from an Order of Merit standpoint money wise, but he will get in the team from his world points,' added Montgomerie.
'He will be playing at a higher level and playing against players he could face next year and he will be a more mature player because of it.
'I am the same as everyone else, if I take my Ryder Cup captain's hat off, I can't see him not being a Ryder Cup player.'
