Woods struggles to find his touch

Before Tiger Woods began his bid for a third successive US PGA Championship title today, United States Ryder Cup captain Curtis Strange feared his star player might be "a little tired and beat up".

Six holes into the season's last major and Woods appeared to confirm Strange's worst fears.

The world No1 dropped three shots to one birdie to go seven down on pacesetting South African Ernie Els.

In just six weeks, Strange will lead a 12-man side in the defence of the Ryder Cup at The Belfry, and his observation on Woods' form is bound to give a boost to the European team.

Although Woods' record in the Ryder Cup is not impressive - he has won three and a half points out of a possible 10 in two Ryder Cup matches - Strange was hoping that the presence of the 25-year-old American would be enough to motivate his team-mates while at the same time intimidate his opponents.

Yet Woods could manage only a tie for 25th place in the Open Championship last month and there is a growing suspicion he may be suffering burn-out after completing an historic four successive major victories.

Strange said: "Tiger just doesn't look like he's really been into it like we've seen him in the past.

"I can't speak for Tiger, but you have to have some kind of a letdown some time. Especially when you've reached an almost impossible goal."