Azinger will have open line to Tiger during Ryder Cup

By Larry Fine

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Tiger Woods may still have an impact on the Ryder Cup despite being ruled out by injury.

U.S. captain Paul Azinger said on Tuesday he had spoken to the world number one about the September 19-21 match against holders Europe and hoped to have his input during the biennial team competition in Louisville, Kentucky.

"I'm going to have an open phone line to Tiger Woods during the event," Azinger told a news conference as he announced Steve Stricker, JB Holmes, Hunter Mahan and Chad Campbell as his four wildcard picks.

"I am curious to see how he feels as things unfold throughout the week. He's really intelligent and has a great golf mind so I'm looking forward to talking to Tiger.

"I can call any time I want. I have a good relationship with Tiger."

Azinger said Woods was not involved in choosing the wildcards and the pair had not yet discussed whether he would travel to Valhalla Golf Club during Ryder Cup week.

Woods is recovering from the knee operation he had after his U.S. Open triumph in June and is out for the rest of the year.

"We're missing Tiger Woods, the greatest player on earth, which is a big blow to us," Azinger said. "It's one of my great regrets of this Ryder Cup."

The U.S. captain added everyone was eager to see Woods back in action.

"I think the game needs Tiger and misses Tiger," said Azinger.

(Editing by Tony Jimenez)