Experienced American Steve Stricker has ruled himself out of a playing role at the Ryder Cup by announcing that he is taking a break for the remainder of 2014.
The 12-time PGA Tour winner has already been confirmed as one of Tom Watson's vice captains for the battle with Europe at Gleneagles in September.
He has recently been tipped as a wildcard option due to Tiger Woods and Dustin Johnson withdrawing from the tournament, but the 47-year-old, who has represented his country at the last three Ryder Cups, has decided to rest hip and back injuries in anticipation of next season.
"Going to shut it down till December. Rest and rehab and then try to play and see how it goes," Stricker told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Matt Kuchar and Jason Dufner are also doubts for the USA team as they struggle with back and neck problems respectively.
