Cloth

2008

27.5 x 19.5

Sotheby’s is proud to offer this 2008 Ryder Cup Flag signed by the European team, commemorating three days of fierce competition at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. Despite Europe’s strong lineup and the absence of US star Tiger Woods due to injury, the 2008 Ryder Cup saw Team USA reclaim the Cup with a spirited and emotional performance thanks in large part to the strategic "pod" system employed by Captain Paul Azinger. 2008 marked Team USA’s first victory in the event since 1999.

Under the leadership of captain Paul Azinger, the American team embraced a bold new approach built on unity and a strategic “pod” system. Designed to bolster team cohesion and unity, Azinger was inspired by a program detailing the training of Navy SEALs and by the conclusion that Team Europe gravitated to pods on its own due to the various nationalities and languages amongst its roster. Led by standout performances from Anthony Kim, Kenny Perry, Boo Weekley, and Jim Furyk, Team USA defeated Europe 16½–11½. The victory was especially notable for being achieved without Tiger Woods, who was sidelined by injury.

The lot is accompanied by a letter from James Spence Authentication in regards to the signatures. The flag is signed by Miguel Ángel Jiménez, Robert Karlsson, Lee Westwood, Pádraig Harrington, Sergio García, Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Søren Hansen, Ian Poulter, Paul Casey, Graeme McDowell, and Oliver Wilson.