Patinrick Reed has declared he has “no excuses” as he prepares to resume his challenge for the Race to Dubai title, seeking to widen his advantage over Rory McIlroy following a return from a shoulder injury.
The 36-year-old American is set to tee off at the Open de Espana on Thursday, marking his first competitive appearance since withdrawing during the second round of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth last month. Currently sitting approximately 300 points clear in the standings with five tournaments remaining, Reed is targeting becoming the second American, following Collin Morikawa’s 2021 success, to win the European No 1 title.
McIlroy will not be in Madrid this week but is scheduled to return to action at the DP World India Championship in New Delhi starting October 15. Reed has dominated the standings since February, secured by victories at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and the Qatar Masters, alongside three additional top-10 finishes.
Reflecting on his international ambitions, Reed emphasized the importance of global play. “I’ve always prided myself as being that American that likes to play around the world,” Reed said. “To have the opportunity to come over here… and also to have a chance to win the Race to Dubai, it would mean a lot.”
He recalled advice from Gary Player: “If you want to be a worldwide player, you’ve got to go out and play outside of the PGA Tour.”
Reed also addressed his recent departure from LIV Golf, stating he intends to earn his way back to the PGA Tour through performance rather than accepted pathways. “I’ve always wanted to earn my spot rather than having a spot given,” he noted.
Regarding the shoulder issue that forced his withdrawal at Wentworth, Reed described the injury as unforeseen. “Never saw it coming. It was my first time withdrawing during a round of golf due to injury,” he admitted. Although the hand was initially swollen and painful, scans revealed the problem originated in the shoulder. He confirmed that while the injury may remain uncomfortable, it has not significantly hindered his ability to swing the club.
Meanwhile, three-time champion Jon Rahm will skip the tournament in Spain as he awaits the birth of his fourth child. The defending champion, England’s Marco Penge, is among a strong field that includes Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, Ludvig Åberg, and Sergio Garcia.
Looking ahead to the 2027 Ryder Cup, US captain Jim Furyk confirmed that Reed remains under consideration. “We are going to put the best 12 guys, the best team of 12. If Patrick Reed is one of those, that’s great,” Furyk stated.
Thirty points clear with five events left? Rory better start practicing his comeback story sooner rather than later.
Reed’s no-excuses attitude is refreshing. Hope the shoulder holds up for the stretch run!