Lehman letter seeks out US Ryder Cup heroes

TOM LEHMAN has sent a letter to every USPGA Tour member with US citizenship.

Lehman, who will captain the US team at September's Ryder Cup, wrote the letter to motivate players to do everything in their power to make the team to take on Europe.

"I let them know I'm truly interested and concerned with their games and lives," Lehman said at the Sony Open.

Lehman didn't want to play favourites or omit anyone who might potentially make his team, so he just dashed off a copy to everyone - roughly 100 players.

It is way too early to speculate on his two captain's picks, but Lehman had little hesitation revealing the type of player he would consider to round out his 12-man side.

"I would like to see guys who, when they get their chance (to win), make the most of it," he said, adding he also wanted players who were at their best when the "chips are down."

Lehman still harbours hopes of making the Ryder Cup team as a player. He is 17th in the US standings, with the top 10 after August's USPGA Championship automatically making the team.

He will not take himself as a captain's pick but intends to play if he earns a berth.

Lehman may make another visit to the K Club before September's showdown. He played in last year's European Open there and likely will return in July, unless he is in contention to make his own team.

In that case, he will opt for the USPGA Tour's Western Open because Ryder Cup points are not available at European Tour events.

"If I'm playing really well, I'll play the Western Open," he said. "If I'm playing like (garbage), I'll go."