Sunriver, Ore. -- Bernhard Langer strolled into Sunriver, Ore., hoping to claim his third consecutive major win on the Champions Tour. But, he took the time to congratulate countryman Martin Kaymer on his win at last week’s PGA Championship before he started his on-course preparation.
Kaymer has been a consistent star on the PGA European Tour for several years, but this was a break-out moment for the 25-year-old.
“I was very pleased for him to finally have broken through,” said Langer. “I was very proud of the way he made the putt on the 72nd hole and the 17th hole in the playoff. Those were clutch putts under the circumstances.”
Langer hadn’t been able to reach Kaymer, but left a phone message for him. Maybe this week, Kaymer can leave a congratulatory phone message for Langer. And should Langer win this week, don’t be surprised if Colin Montgomery takes a look at Langer as one of his captain’s picks for the upcoming Ryder Cup.
Maybe the two can be paired together?
By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association for 20 years.
(Permission granted for general or media use).
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