Casey eyes “awesome” Olympics

Paul Casey is eyeing a big season on the PGA Tour to make sure he is in the Great Britain team for next year’s Olympics.

The Englishman has opted to ply his trade exclusively on the PGA Tour, ending any chance of representing Europe at the Ryder Cup, but he still has Rio firmly in his sights.

The top 15 stars in the world at the qualification point will automatically earn a place at the South American event while the two highest-ranked Great Britain players will be granted a place regardless of their world ranking.

But with Justin Rose and Danny Willett both ahead of the world number 22 at present, Casey is targeting a big year stateside to ensure that he books his spot at next summer’s showpiece.

Several high-profile players have made it clear that they are not enthused about the Games, with Australia’s former world number one Adam Scott calling it more of a “distraction” than anything else, but Casey is clearly a big fan and will focus his efforts on making the prestigious event.

“Some guys are unsure about the whole thing, but I’m all in,” he said. “I think it would be fantastic, amazing. But first of all, I have to get myself in the team.

“It would be awesome. Get in the top 15 so you’re guaranteed,” he added. “It would be great, just to go, just to have competed would be great.”

Tagged Paul Casey, Rio 2016