By Tony Jimenez
LONDON (Reuters) – U.S. Ryder Cup talisman Patrick Reed will keep his European Tour card next season despite failing to play the required number of events to retain membership.
The American was due to compete in the $7 million Turkish Airlines Open this month but dropped out, as did world number two Rory McIlroy, because of security fears.
The European Tour said in a statement on Monday that Reed would keep his membership by virtue of his victory at the 2014 Cadillac Championship in Florida, a World Golf Championship event.
“We are delighted to announce that Patrick will return to action on the European Tour for the 2017 season,” chief executive Keith Pelley said.
“He is one of the game’s most exciting talents, as everyone who witnessed his electrifying performance at this year’s Ryder Cup will testify to, and our fans look forward to seeing him in action again next year.” Reed was the leading American scorer in their Ryder Cup victory over Europe in Minnesota last month, picking up three and a half points from five matches.
“I love to compete and I take pride in the fact I have both my PGA Tour card and my European Tour card,” said the world number eight.
“I am grateful I will continue to be a part of the European Tour and I value the opportunity to play with the best players in the world, all over the world.”
(Editing by Ed Osmond)
By Tony Jimenez
