Lee Westwood's stinging comments about Tiger Woods may actually motivate the American team at next week's Ryder Cup, according to former USA captain Paul Azinger.
Woods, who has competed in seven Ryder Cups during his career, was named as one of Davis Love III's vice-captains for the competition in Hazeltine, which begins on September 30.
But Westwood, the Englishman in the Europe team, suggested earlier in the week that Woods' presence may actually be a hindrance for the hosts.
"He could have an adverse effect in the team room," Westwood told ESPN. "People have always seemed to try to do too much when they have partnered him. It might be different if he's one of the vice-captains—you don't know."
But Azinger, America's victorious captain in 2008, believes Westwood's jibe could come back to hurt Europe in Minnesota next week.
"They could motivate the American team as well," Azinger said. "The times I have been on the same team as Tiger he was anything but a divisive figure.
"He can be imposing but he can also be the nicest guy in the world. It just depends on the situation."
Azinger's team beat Nick Faldo's Europe by five points in Valhalla eight years ago. It was the last time the Americans won the competition.
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