 Colin Montgomerie has slipped to 15th in the world rankings |
Colin Montgomerie has admitted that security concerns were at the heart of his decision to play in the USA rather than Dubai this week. The Scot will line up at the Ford Championships in Doral, Florida, after making a late withdrawal from the Dubai Desert Classic.
And following Tiger Woods' decision to pull out of the event in the United Arab Emirates, Montgomerie revealed his fears over playing in the region.
"Qatar is a big US Air Force base," said Montgomerie.
"There's a course that carries my name in Dubai. I love the place, but maybe this year wasn't the time to go."
Montgomerie is taking the opportunity to play in America, possibly right through until the Masters in April.
And the 39-year-old feels Americans are giving him more respect than in the past.
"I was in America and had the option of playing here and next week, and I took that option instead. "I'd like to try to compete a little more here in the years to come, so I thought why not take the opportunity to do this.
"I think people tend to respect me and my game a little bit more after the Ryder Cup this time around.
"It seems to be very friendly and very open.
"This country has changed a little since 11 September; I think people are more courteous now."
When play starts on Thursday, Montgomerie will have to contend with leading Americans David Toms, Davis Love and Jim Furyk, as well as PGA money leader Mike Weir of Canada and English veteran Nick Faldo.
MMIX
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