Ian Poulter Likely to Miss Ryder Cup

Ian Poulter looks likely to miss his first Ryder Cup in 10 years with an arthritic foot problem

Ian Poulter looks likely to miss this year's Ryder Cup with an arthritic foot problem that will sideline him for four months.

Poulter said: "I am obviously disappointed to be in this situation, especially during a Ryder Cup year.

"Right now, rest and rehab take priority."

This year's event takes place from 27th September - 2nd October, less than four months away.

Ian Poulter Swing Analysis

Even if Poulter did return in time, he would unlikely be ready for such an event like the Ryder Cup where he'd be playing with, and against, players who will be fresh off competing throughout the summer at the majors and the Olympics.

The Englishman has played in five Ryder Cups (2004, 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014) and has been on four winning sides.

He hasn't missed one for 10 years since the 2006 edition, where Europe beat USA at the K Club in Ireland.

He's won 14 points from 18 matches and, despite not currently being in a qualifying position, he would have been one of the favourites for a wildcard spot on Darren Clarke's team.

He famously inspired Europe's 'Miracle in Medinah' back in 2012 where he won all four of his matches including in the Saturday afternoon fourballs where he birdied the final five holes to get Europe to within four points of the USA heading into the singles.

That earned him the nickname 'The Postman'.

Poulter has 12 European Tour victories as well as two WGC wins but is without a professional victory since the WGC-HSBC Champions back in November 2012.

However, the Orlando resident, aside from a T3rd finish in Puerto Rico in March, has just one top 30 finish on the PGA Tour this year and has missed four cuts, including his last two.

He has dropped down to 85th in the Official World Golf Rankings.

Next: Europe's post-Brexit Ryder Cup team