Leading US sports psychologist Dr Bob Rotella, sees no conflict this week in working with players from opposing Ryder Cup teams. Nor does his associate, Butch Harmon, who numbers Darren Clarke and Tiger Woods among his clients.

"Everything I teach is about competing against yourself and doing the best you can with your talent and your game," said Rotella, who works with Clarke, Padraig Harrington, David Duval, Davis Love III and Phil Mickelson. "The Ryder Cup is no different. I have about eight guys as clients between the two teams."

But who is he rooting for? "The Americans, naturally," he replied. "I want to see them win, but that won't interfere with my preparation of Darren's game."