Justin Rose still baffled by Ryder Cup exclusions on eve of US Open

England's Justin Rose says he's still perplexed why he was overlooked for two Ryder Cup spots on the eve of the 2023 US Open at Los Angeles Country Club.

Ben Smith

13 Jun 2023

Justin Rose still baffled by Ryder Cup exclusions on eve of US Open

Justin Rose says he's still a bit confused why he was overlooked by Thomas Bjorn for the 2021 Ryder Cup on the eve of the US Open, 10 years after he claimed the major.

Rose comes into the third major of the year with renewed optimism for his career considering he broke a four-year winless streak on the PGA Tour at Pebble Beach in February and forced himself back into the world's top 50.

A T-16 finish at the 87th Masters paired with a T-9 at the PGA Championship has seen the 42-year-old now occupy 25th in the OWGR.

The 2023 US Open will be played amid the backdrop of an announcement which shocked the golf world.

The PGA Tour has agreed to partner with the Saudi Arabian backers of their LIV Golf rival. The proposal is now under intense scrutiny.

"Golf is really the sport that gives that connection across the generations," Rose told The Telegraph's Jamie Corrigan, adding: "Yeah, we are all pros, but deep down it is about the dream and those who helped us there."

Rose also turned down a huge offer to join the breakaway tour. There were times where he leaned in on LIV more intensely than other periods as he mulled the proposal, but ultimately couldn't risk missing out on the Ryder Cup or the majors.

Now he wants to make sure one decision is not with European captain Luke Donald.

He told publication:

"I've played five times and qualified by right every time. I was overlooked for wild cards in both 2014 and last time and not altogether sure why, considering my record.

"So yeah, I'd love to take it out of the hands of the captain this time, but with only six automatics, if I have to rely on a pick I will do so and make it hard not to select me.”

"This could be that time to blood a new team that'll carry on for the next decade or so. It's funny how things work out sometimes. Things happen for reasons you don't expect at the time. I'm just glad I'm feeling relevant again."

Rose will play his first two rounds of the 2023 US Open alongside Jason Day and Rickie Fowler.

Click here to see all the tee times and pairings for R1 and R2

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