No Signs Of Improvements For Future Italian Open, Ryder Cup Venue

This one was all about the money then and now, as Italy is in a financial and political crisis, the prospects of the 2022 Ryder Cup host course getting a necessary renovation appear uncertain, writes The Guardian's Ewan Murray.

While the Italian Open kicks off Thursday and the European Tour says all bills have been paid so far, the specter of trouble looms, writes The Guardian's Ewan Murray.  

Still, recent weeks have not provided much to alter the sentiment of those sceptical about Italy and the Ryder Cup. The host course of the 2018 Italian Open, Gardagolf in Brescia, was late in being confirmed to participants. Players were subsequently warned by the European Tour to expect a course short of the standard they would expect for such a high-profile and lucrative competition. Given the emphasis placed on Rolex Series performances in respect of Ryder Cup points, this is an ominous scenario. It would be a surprise if players don’t speak out over the coming days regarding what is little more than a standard members’ course.

Of greater significance is a lack of action at Marco Simone.

Given that Tiger Woods seems a very likely candidate to captain the 2022 team, and his Italian isn't quite as good as Kobe Bryant's, maybe the matches should just move to the Old Course? You know, out of respect to a legend...and the sport.