Donald misses Ryder Cup

Posted on 13/08/08. Source: Sky Sports (By Staff writer)

Luke Donald will not be available for next month's Ryder Cup after undergoing surgery on a wrist injury.

The Englishman was an outsider for a wildcard for Nick Faldo's team to face the United States in Kentucky after a season hampered by a tendon injury.

The 30-year-old's appearances have been restricted this year and he was forced to miss the recent Open and USPGA tournaments.

Donald was awarded a wildcard for the 2004 match at Oakland Hills, which Europe won by a record margin of 18.5 - 9.5.

Two years later he qualified by right for the match at the K Club, which Europe won once again by the same scoreline.

Donald has an impressive Ryder Cup record, having won five of his seven matches.

"While there is never a good time for an injury, the timing of this injury was especially disappointing for me considering it forced me to miss the Open Championship and it comes in a Ryder Cup year," Donald said.

"But taking proper care of it is my highest priority and I'm encouraged by Dr Weiland's experience with this type of injury and his outlook towards my recovery and rehabilitation."

Donald will begin strengthening exercises on the wrist in six weeks, and should be able to begin chipping and putting after three months of recovery and rehabilitation.