Olazabal considering Ryder Cup role

Jose Maria Olazabal has asked for more time before deciding whether he will captain the European team in the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.

The Spaniard, who was Nick Faldo’s deputy as Europe surrendered the Ryder Cup to the United States in Valhalla last September, has previously been non-committal on the leadership role but appears to be warming to the idea despite suffering defeat in his first experience as captain.

The 42-year-old oversaw Europe’s 10-6 loss to Asia in The Royal Trophy, stepping in for close friend and compatriot Seve Ballesteros – the 1997 Ryder Cup captain and victorious Royal Trophy skipper in 2006 and 2007 – who is recovering from surgery on a brain tumour.

But Europe’s first defeat in the continental contest at Amata Spring Country Club near Bangkok has not dented his ambition to follow in the footsteps of Ballesteros in the biennial showdown with the United States.

“I would love to be considered, I’m not going to deny that,” said Olazabal, who has been battling rheumatism in recent years.

“I’ve never denied that being captain of the Ryder Cup is something really special, it’s a privilege, but it’s always been like that.”