Lee Elder holds the distinction of being the first black USPGA Tour member to compete in South Africa. So he thought the Presidents Cup matches there next year would be an ideal opportunity to honour him with captaincy of the American side. Instead, it went to Jack Nicklaus.

"I thought Gary (Player) and I being the captains would have been perfect," said Elder this week. "I felt I should at least be vice captain. It's pretty hurtful. I made history in South Africa and I want to be part of the team. I've been offered a position as an honorary starter and as a referee and I'm thinking about it."

Nicklaus, who previously captained the US team in 1998, has indicated that he will choose one of his sons, Gary or Jackie, as assistant captain. "The players have asked for a contemporary in the role," he said.