Ian Woosnam - Ryder Cup vice captain

"I'm definitely in favour," said the 42-year-old who appeared in eight consecutive Ryder Cups from 1983 onwards, compiling the best fourballs record in the event's history.

"It doesn't lack for anything, you've got this resort with 400 bedrooms, the clubhouse which is second to none and the practice facilities and two other golf courses to go with it.

"I've been to plenty of other resorts and this has a lot more going for it, and there is a great benefit for it to come to Wales and Celtic Manor."

The bid, which has been recognised as an official candidate by the PGA and the Ryder Cup committee, also has the backing of the National Assembly, the Wales Tourist Board and the Welsh Development Agency.

Five times major winner Seve Ballesteros who will be playing in the Wales Open also lent his support.

Severiano Ballesteros - backs Wales's Ryder Cup bid

"The Ryder Cup has never been in Wales so I don't see any reason why it should not be held here," said Ballesteros, who campaigned long and hard to get the match played in Spain.

He captained Europe to victory over the United States at Valderrama in 1997.

"I've said before it should move around Europe and go to different countries and it's never been in Wales, so why not?"

Former Ryder Cup captain Mark James also voiced his approval at the official opening last year.

Tom Middlehurst, minister for sport in Wales, believes the country and course are more than capable of staging such a prestigious event.

"We have a superb venue here at the Celtic Manor to host such a prestigious event and I know that Wales can offer the facilities, infrastructure and other support to attract the PGA," said Middlehurst.

Sergio Garcia - Europe's young genius

"I strongly support Wales' bid and urge everyone to work together to make sure we bring the Ryder Cup to Wales in 2009."

Rhodri Morgan, the First Secretary for Wales, added: "We're confident we could do the best job the Ryder Cup has ever had if we are given the opportunity in 2009."

So far the only other official bid has come from Scotland - backed by European No1 Colin Montgomerie - although no venue has yet been decided.

Bids will be considered later this year but a decision on the 2009 venue is not expected until late 2001.

But Sweden is also expected to compete for the right to stage the 2009 event, and other bids from England, Ireland and elsewhere on continental Europe have not been ruled out.