The Cristie Kerr WD And The Rules

The Solheim Cup finish was positively brilliant, as Brian Keogh recounts. But it wouldn't be a team match if there wasn't a controversy and I have to say, I like the rule in place that forced the U.S. to lose a full point when Cristie Kerr's wrist injury prevented her from playing Karen Stupples.

The SI/golf.com gang did not agree and some even suggested the Europeans should have only taken a half-point out of the goodness of their hearts:

Shipnuck: Not to take away from the feel-good vibe, but I thought it was bunk that, per Solheim rules, an injured Cristie Kerr had to forfeit her match, giving the Europeans a crucial full point. It would be much more sporting for the Euros to put someone in the envelope and take a halve. Or am I missing something?

Lipsey: Yes, that would be the proper thing to do, although without a rule stipulating that, it's hard for a team to give up a point in the heat of competition.

Godich: I couldn't agree more. I understand that was the rule going in, but Europe could have said it was only taking a half-point.

Wei: Hey, rules are rules, right? It sucks, but you have to take every advantage you can. Why would you give away a half point in such an important competition? I know Kerr was truly injured, but it would set a bad precedent. If you get a half point, why not withdraw?

Godich: Why would you give away a half-point? It's part of the spirit of the competition. There isn't a player on either side of these competitions--man or woman--who would fake an injury for the good of the team. These players have too much pride, and so much to prove. Nor would a captain ever suggest it. Look at the Ryder Cup, which, bad golf and all, has had only a couple of injury WDs over the years (on both sides).

There's a great photo gallery from the final day at Golfweek. Looking at the passion these players have playing team golf for country reminds me why I'm soooooo glad we aren't doing any kind of team nonsense in the Olympic games!