Faldo calls on Europe to correct major failing

Nick Faldo today called on Europe's golfers to end a drought of major victories now of four years' duration.

The last European to claim one of the sport's four elite tournaments was Paul Lawrie, 18 majors ago at The Open at Carnoustie in 1999.

It hasn't been for want of opportunity. With world No1 Tiger Woods struggling for form, surprise wins by Americans Ben Curtis at The Open and Shaun Micheel in the US PGA Championship on Sunday proved that a lot of application and a little luck can produce results.

Faldo, winner of six majors between 1987 and 1996, said Europe's challenge lacked "a little bit of everything".

Ahead of the £3.75million World Golf Championship at the Firestone Country Club, Faldo said: "The talent is there, but they have just got to put it all together. It is about a level of commitment now. You have to give 100 per cent in all areas."

Here Faldo has been practising with Ian Poulter and expressed fascination with his partner's habit of dying thick blonde streaks into bronze-tinted hair.