United States
Profile: Jim Furyk
| Born | West Chester, Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| age | 36 |
| height | 6ft 2in |
| Turned Pro | 1992 |
| World ranking | 3 |
| Appearances | (4) 1997-99-2002-04 |
| Won | Lost | Halved | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singles | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| Foursomes | 1 | 4 | 0 |
| Fourball | 0 | 5 | 1 |
| Total | 4 | 9 | 2 |
| Win Rate | 33% |
Jim Furyk possesses one of the most unorthodox golf swings in the professional game, yet the 2003 US Open winner is one of the most consistent performers around. And many have suggested his steady and controlled demeanor will make for the ideal Ryder Cup partnership with Tiger Woods.
Affectionately known as the 'Bald Eagle' Furyk put in some stellar performances this season, especially in the US Open and British Open where he finished tied second and fourth respectively. His efforts at Hoylake deserve special praise for his record up to that point left a lot to be desired. Granted he was fourth once more in 1997 and 1998 but more recently he had missed the last five cuts before this year's event.
His major breakthrough in the US Open came at Olympia Fields Country Club in Illinois when in 2003 he was part of a remarkable quartet of four first-time major winners that season. In joining Mike Weir, Ben Curtis and Shaun Micheel it was the first time to have happened since 1969.
Since making his debut in 1997 Furyk has played in every Ryder Cup and will definitely be one of the calming influences on the American side. With regards his record in the event he boasts an unbeaten record in the singles after beating Nick Faldo in 1997, Sergio Garcia in 1999, famously halved with Paul McGinley at the Belfry in 2002 and beat David Howell last time around.
Never mind Furyk's unique action, influenced by his father as his only ever coach, he also has one of the most deliberate pre-shot routines. There are few players on the circuit who step away from address position to have more look at the target line.
Whatever about the mechanics and mannerisms if this individual, he has among the elite players of his profession for some time and will be major threat to any European who faces him.
- Paul Gallagher