Report: Zach Johnson to be next US skipper

According to reports Zach Johnson will captain the Americans at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy. It was thought that Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson would maybe lead the next two teams as the Americans look for their first victory on European soil since The Belfry in 1993.

But now Johnson, a two-time major winner and five-time Ryder Cupper, will take the rains at Marco Simone. The American has had plenty of experience behind the scenes having been a vice-captain the past two matches.

Three people informed the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the PGA of America had yet to announce Johnson's selection but the news isn't a big surprise given Johnson's pedigree and popularity. Johnson is part of a very special club - Tiger Woods, Nick Faldo, Seve Ballesteros, Jack Nicklaus and Sam Snead - who has won the Masters and the Open at St Andrews.

The committee is made up of the outgoing skipper Steve Stricker, three PGA Tour players and three PGA of America executives.

Who he will lock horns with is uncertain with the comings and goings of the proposed Saudi Golf League. Lee Westwood has stated that he will be looking to play in Italy while Luke Donald appeared to have inched his way ahead of Henrik Stenson.

Whoever it is will have to oversee a team who were thumped 19-9 by the Americans at Whistling Straits.