COLIN MONTGOMERIE, Scottish by birth, yet raised in Yorkshire, is a man who easily divides opinion. Often seen as moody and irritable on course, he is said to be a wise-cracker by his fellow pros. In truth he has always been something of an enigma. He was introduced to golf at a young age by his father, who later became secretary at Royal Troon, yet despite a promising career as an amateur and a scholarship that meant he was one of the first European golfers to attend an American university, he almost decided against a career as a player.
At Houston Baptist University in Texas his golf scholarship went hand in hand with studies in business management and law and his intention was to enter into the business side of golf rather than to become a professional. However, he decided to “have a go” at the European Tour and turned professional in 1988.
It proved a wise decision as from 1993 to 1999 Monty dominated the European Tour, winning the Order of Merit a record-breaking seven times. After a much publicised divorce, he returned to winning ways and secured the Order of Merit again last year.
While Monty holds the dubious distinction of being considered by many as the best golfer never to have won a major championship, he is heralded as one of the greatest competitors in the history of the Ryder Cup, having never been defeated in a singles match and most recently sinking the putt on the final match to beat David Toms and secure victory for Europe. He has produced some outstanding moments, none more so than when he managed a half against Mark Calcavecchia at Kiawah Island in 1991 having been five down at the turn.
The Scot brings a refreshing approach to the game — in a sport that is now dominated as much by time spent in the gym and with a sports psychologist, Monty is known to enjoy dining out and he has admitted to not spending as much time on the practice range as he should. Despite criticism of his swing he is happy with it and sees no reason to change. He also refreshingly admits that he is a professional golfer for the sole reason of making money. He has used his knowledge of the business side of the game to set up his own course-design company and has created courses in China and Malaysia.
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FACT FILE
Age: 43
Nationality: Scottish
Wins: 39
Major wins: 0
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Major record in 2006: Masters: missed cut; US Open: tied 2nd; Open: missed cut; US PGA: missed cut
World ranking: 15
How he qualified for World Match Play: Thirteenth on the Major Championship ranking
Previous WMP experience: 12 appearances between 1991 and 2005; winner in 1999, final in 1994 and 2000