Woods and McIlroy ready for showdown

American Brandt Snedeker, a US Ryder Cup captain’s choice selection by Davis Love, won the Tour Championship on Sunday at East Lake to win a record $11.44 million and jump to 10^th in the rankings ahead of this weekend’s showdown.

Holders Europe boast four of the world’s top five players with England’s Luke Donald, Lee Westwood and Justin Rose joining McIlroy in that select group.

“I’m just going to really enjoy it. It’s going to be a good week,” McIlroy said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

Woods, a 14-time major champion chasing the record of 18 majors won by Jack Nicklaus but without a major title since 2008, looked forward to a rest day on Monday before beginning Ryder Cup practice sessions at Medinah. “It will be nice to shut it down and gear up again because we’ve got a long, long week ahead of us,” Woods said. “We’re all going to need our energy and get our rest when we can.”

Woods, who has seen 18 majors come and go since he last won one, is happy to be healthier and more competitive and consistent than he was a year ago.

“Considering where I was at last year, it’s nice to be where I’m at now,” he said.