Q&A: DJ on Whistling Straits, the President’s Cup and Fred Couples

We talk Whistling Straits, the President’s Cup, Fred Couples and why he enjoys team competitions. Enjoy.

Have you thought much about returning to Whistling Straits and how much your life has changed in the five years since the PGA Championship was last there?
Obviously, I’ve had the question asked a bunch about the bunker. Most people remember me getting the penalty and not getting in the playoff. What they don’t remember is I birdied 16 and 17 to get a one shot lead going into 18. To me you have to take a lot of positives out of it. Obviously I’ve proven I can win on Tour; in that situation, I know I have what it takes to win a major under the gun on Sundays (because of the way he played at the 2010 PGA). Having done that gives me confidence. I don’t take any negatives out of that situation.

Obviously my life has changed since then. I have a son and I’ve started a family so everything is different

With the President’s Cup coming up this fall, how much do you enjoy team competitions?

I really like them. They are a lot of fun. It’s one time of year you are playing with guys and you get to pull for them. The camaraderie is great; it’s kind of like being in college again. It’s a lot of fun to play with a partner because you never get to do that throughout the year. We all have a great time.

What’s the difference between the President’s Cup and Ryder Cup?
There’s not a whole lot of difference. Obviously the Ryder Cup has a history that’s and that’s the main difference. The President’s Cup is a lot of fun and I really enjoy playing it. The Ryder Cup is on a different level, but it’s just because of the history. I think eventually the President’s Cup will catch up.

Speaking of the two competitions, Fred Couples has been wildly successful as the President’s Cup captain. What makes him so good in that environment?
Fred does a great job. It’s just his attitude. He is really laid back. Everyone is involved with the way he does things. He looks to his players, the veterans and the young guys. He gets everyone’s opinions and makes the best decision. That’s the way I see it going. He has a great relationship with all the players.